That genetic legacy implies social contact and behavioral compatibility that the old model of cognitively primitive Neanderthals could not easily explain.

The archaeological record has also produced evidence of symbolic behavior in Neanderthal contexts that is difficult to attribute to contact with or imitation of modern humans.

Eagle feathers and talons — collected, not eaten — have been found at multiple Neanderthal sites across Europe, suggesting personal ornamentation.

Pigments including red ochre and black manganese dioxide appear at Neanderthal sites in patterns suggesting use for body decoration or other symbolic purposes.

Cave paintings at three sites in Spain have been dated, using uranium-thorium methods, to before anatomically modern humans arrived in Europe — implying Neanderthal authorship.