Owl-shaped plaques may have been created by Copper Age children as toys – study

Owl-shaped plaques may have been created by Copper Age children as toys – study (Juan J Negro/PA)

Children may have created ancient owl-shaped slate engraved plaques, dating from around 5,000 years, as toys – putting them top of the wish list, according to a new study.

Researchers looked at whether the owl engravings discovered across the Iberian Peninsula – mainly Spain and Portugal – were used for ritualistic purposes, or whether they were more likely to be toys and an opportunity for children to develop carving skills.