Sheep Takeover (Ennedi, Chad)

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Due to a dramatic shift in animal populations that occurred at the start of this era, Sahelian breed sheep have gradually taken over as the primary source of sustenance for local communities in the Ennedi region. This decorative niche within the northern Baradergolo shelter showcases this trend. Initially adorned with cow depictions, it has since been embellished with sprawling flocks of sheep. Notably, the central cow remains untouched by the artists who added these sheep over time, suggesting a deliberate preservation of its original status. This phenomenon is not unique to the Ennedi's decorated sites; many cows in particular positions within these sites likely hold symbolic meaning. A key distinguishing feature of sheep is their udders, which typically sport only two teats (this characteristic is evident in the 3D model processed by DStretch GRGB). Alessandro Menardi Noguera 2020 observed flocks of sheep prominently featured in the rock art of Chad's Ennedi region.