The scientists found that Neanderthals had likely disappeared from northwestern Europe roughly 40,000 to 44,000 years ago — earlier than previously thought. Previous radiocarbon dating analysis of Neanderthal remains found in what's known as the Spy Cave in Belgium determined ages as recently as 24,000 years ago.

What killed Neanderthals?

We once lived alongside Neanderthals, but interbreeding, climate change, or violent clashes with rival Homo sapiens led to their demise. Until around 100,000 years ago, Europe was dominated by the Neanderthals. ... Another theory is that they fell victim to climate change.

What led to the extinction of Neanderthals?

One model postulates that habitat degradation and fragmentation occurred in the Neanderthal territory long before the arrival of modern humans, and that it led to the decimation and eventual disappearance of Neanderthal populations.