Plant macrofossils and pollen in goat/sheep faeces from the Neolithic lake-shore settlement Arbon Bleiche 3, Switzerland

Over 300 goat/sheep faeces from the Neolithic lake-shore settlement of Arbo n Bleiche 3 (3384-3370 BC) were analysed for macrofossils and 22 of tem for pollen. Two main types of fodder could be detected, which were both consum ed in winter. The more frequent type is characterized by remains of blackbe rry (Rubus fruticosus s. 1.) probably showing the use of pasture in the nea r surroundings of the settlement. The second type is dominated by leaf frag ments of silver fir (Abies alba) and by pollen and anthers of early-floweri ng shrubs such as hazel (Corylus avellana) and alder (Alnus sp.), pointing in the latter cases to additional foddering of twigs to livestock inside th e settlement in times of shortage. Comparison with other Neolithic sites of Switzerland reveals differences that may indicate local adaptations in the keeping of goats or sheep.