Researchers have found the oldest known whale bone tools, estimated to be around 20,000 years old. The tools were discovered in the Bay of Biscay, near the coasts of Spain and France. These thin, pointed tools were made from the bones of large whales, such as blue whales, fin whales, and sperm whales. Scientists believe the people who made these tools did not hunt whales directly. Instead, they likely collected bones from dead whales that had washed onto the shore. The tools were probably used for hunting large land animals like reindeer and bison.

This discovery is important because it gives researchers new ideas about how early humans survived near the sea. The study was published in the scientific journal Nature Communications. Experts say that many old artifacts have been lost due to rising sea levels, so this find is especially valuable. Radiocarbon dating technology helped scientists learn the exact age of the tools. Jean-Marc Petillon, a researcher in France, explained that whale bones were very useful for making strong hunting tools. Vicki Szabo, a historian from the U.S., said the discovery shows the long connection between humans and whales. The study also shows that early humans not only hunted animals but also fished and collected shells near the coast, using many resources to survive.