Genetic Research Reveals Causes of Aurochs Extinction

New research from Lund University indicates that the aurochs, an ancient ancestor of modern cattle, faced extinction due to multiple concurrent stressors. Genetic analysis reveals that the species experienced a significant population bottleneck during migration to Scandinavia, followed by habitat loss as open landscapes transformed into dense forests.

Isolation intensified when rising sea levels flooded the land bridge to mainland Europe 8,000 years ago. This geographical separation, combined with heavy human hunting, triggered a sharp population decline. The species persisted in low numbers in southern Sweden until approximately 6,500 years ago, marking the end of their long-term decline after 8,000 years.

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