Archaeologists in northeastern France have made a remarkable discovery of ancient bone flutes believed to be over 12,000 years old, according to a recent report. The tiny flutes were likely used for calling birds during hunting expeditions, providing insight into the early practices of human-animal communication.

The discovery was made in the Vosges Mountains, where a team of researchers uncovered three flutes made from bird bones. The flutes, which are less than six inches long, are believed to be some of the oldest musical instruments ever found in Europe.

The team found evidence that the flutes were likely used to mimic bird calls, as they had been carefully crafted with holes that allowed for different pitches and tones. The flutes were also decorated with intricate engravings, suggesting that they may have had a ceremonial or ritual significance.

The discovery sheds light on the complex relationships that early humans had with the animals around them. By mimicking bird calls, humans were able to communicate with their prey and potentially lure them into traps. It also highlights the early development of music and the important role it played in early human cultures.

The discovery of the bone flutes is a significant contribution to our understanding of the early human experience and the ways in which humans interacted with the natural world. It serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and creativity of our ancestors and the important role music played in their lives.