Behavioural inferences from fossil footprints and conservation mapping using large-scale GPR surveys
Authors: Everett, M., Reynolds, S.C., Bennett, M.R.
Journal: Quaternary Science Advances
Publication Date: 01/09/2026
Volume: 23
eISSN: 2666-0334
DOI: 10.1016/j.qsa.2026.100341
Abstract:Attempts to reconstruct how prehistoric animals behaved are hindered by the inability to observe individuals directly. Fossilised trackways are one possible source of evidence commonly used to support behavioural inferences. Mapping of trackways is crucial for both research and conservation and is typically done through aerial photography but this is limited by the size of exposure of the footprint surface and the surface expressions of buried tracks. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) has been used to study buried tracks in the past and offers a solution to this difficulty. We present two large GPR surveys from two playa surfaces in New Mexico, USA that are known to preserve human and megafauna tracks suitable for detection by GPR. Our results demonstrate that: (1) mapping of trackways over large areas using GPR is possible; (2) these trackways can be categorised into different “radar-species” analogous to the concept of ichnospecies; and (3) it is possible to make behavioural inferences from trackways such as predominant directions of travel and evidence of gregarious behaviours.
Source: Scopus