A comparative collection is essential in zooarchaeology. An
extremely important aspect is that in building comparative collections the
material must have been identified accurately before preparation, in order
to avoid bone mixing. In the preparation process, the following points should
be observed:
1). Sex, age, weight and dimensions of the animal must be recorded
and any other details that might prove useful (Jennie Coy)
2). A well built collection should have specimens covering all
age ranges as well as belonging to both sexes
3). The bones should be disarticulated with clean articular
surfaces
4). The skeletons of the major species should be as complete
as possible
5). For the specimens originating from an archaeological site
a rigorous recording of the archaeological layer must be observed
6). All bones removed for further study should be properly labelled
7). The materials that will not be used right away must be maintained
in their original bags for continuous preservation
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