Neanderthal

Homo neanderthalensis

Background

Date range: 200 - 40 thousand years ago 
Homeland: Europe and southwest to central Asia 
Diet: Omnivorous; plants (during the warmer seasons) and meat (during the colder winters); fish and shellfish
Cranial Capacity: 1500 cc
Habitat: Cold and dry environments in Europe, more arid and dry in the Middle East; survived great climate change
Distinguishing Features: Short, stocky bodies; large noses; angled cheek bones; moderate sexual dimorphism; long, narrow and rounded brain case; mid face prognathism; larger teeth and thicker jaw; large, round eye orbits. 

Do you think The neanderthal
will be the survivor?

The evolution of the neanderthal was a hugely significant step forward as the species had a larger brain than even humans and were found spread throughout Europe and Asia. The neanderthals were a very developed, intelligent species that hunted, developed culture, and survived some harsh European winters. There is evidence of culture, specialized stone tools and even the control over fire in Neanderthal species.  This tough spirit makes them an intimidating rival in this Survivor series, so I would definitely watch out for them! 

Important fossils belonging to this contestant:

Neanderthal 1 - skull cap, it is thetype specimen for the species; found in Germany; 

Lagar Velho - juvenile neanderthal skeleton

Amud 1 - skull found in Israel; has the largest brain currently observed on any human or ancestor - 1750 cc; likely migrated to Israel after harsh Europe winters 

Works referenced: 
http://humanorigins.si.edu/evidence/human-fossils/species/homo-erectus
http://australianmuseum.net.au/homo-erectus

Photo sources: 
http://australianmuseum.net.au/uploads/images/10631/human%20evolution081_big.jpg
http://humanorigins.si.edu/evidence/human-fossils/species/homo-erectus
http://australianmuseum.net.au/homo-erectus