Scans reveal the secrets of animal mummies – some even empty of remains

The team discovered that some of the animal mummies contaned no animal remains Photo: Manchester Museum, The University of Manchester

Manchester scientists find many animal mummies filled with mud and feathers after examining more than 800 of them. 

Unlike human mummies, which were created to preserve the body for the afterlife, animal mummies were a religious offering. Ms McKnight said they would have been given in thanks or anticipation of divine help.

Egyptians would barter for the animals at temples before handing them over to local priests for burial. Along with the sale of the animal mummies, the production of lavish bronze and wooden coffins for their tiny forms are likely to have been an important source of revenue. More