The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) recently uncovered a number of ostrich eggs dating back thousands of years during an excavation near an ancient fire pit in the Negev desert.
“We found a campsite, which extends over about 200 square meters, that was used by the desert nomads since prehistoric times. At the site we found burnt stones, flint and stone tools as well as pottery sherds, but the truly special find is this collection of ostrich eggs,” said IAA excavation director Lauren Davis.
Ostriches were common in the region from early prehistoric periods until they became extinct in the wild during the 19th century. Their eggs have been found in archaeological sites from several periods, reflecting their importance as a raw material.
“We find ostrich eggs in archaeological sites in funerary contexts, and as luxury items and water canteens. Naturally, they were used as a source of food: one ostrich egg has the nutritional value of about 25 normal chicken eggs!” said IAA researcher Dr. Amir Gorzalczany.
For her part, Davis noted that the proximity of the group of eggs to the fire pit indicated that they were collected and thus likely used as food.
“After the excavation we will reconstruct the eggs, just like a puzzle. The whole egg may tell us the species, and exactly what they were used for. As far as I’m concerned, every eggshell is worth its weight in gold! I am really looking forward to the research in the labs. The best is yet ahead!” said Davis.