In a remarkable archaeological find, the president of Navarra, María Chivite, and the minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Rebeca Esnaola, have announced the discovery of a nearly complete skeleton of a bison dating back 4,000 years, unearthed in Sima Arrafela within the Urbasa and Andía Natural Park. This significant discovery is the result of a project led by the General Director of Culture - Prince of Viana Institution, involving scientists from the University of the Basque Country and the Natural History Museum of Madrid, among other national and international institutions.

The bison skeleton has been dated using radiocarbon techniques, and intriguingly, a copper arrowhead was found lodged between its ribs, suggesting that the find dates from the late Copper Age. This context is not only crucial for understanding the timeline of animal existence but also for uncovering the interaction between early humans and their environment. While there is a strong likelihood that the specimen is of European bison origin, confirmation is awaited from DNA analysis, which adds a layer of anticipation to the ongoing research surrounding this discovery.

Labelled as a "unique find on the Iberian Peninsula," this discovery holds significant implications for the study of prehistoric fauna and human activity in the region. Such artifacts provide invaluable insights into the ecological history of Spain and the broader European continent, suggesting a rich interplay of cultural and natural history in a period less documented than others. The research outcomes will likely draw attention both nationally and internationally, potentially positioning Navarra as a focal point for future archaeological studies.