Scans peek beneath wrappings of ancient mummified animals

Researchers say X-ray images of cat, bird and cobra shed light on their lives and deaths

An ancient Egyptian how-dunnit" has been solved, according to researchers who have used imaging techniques to peek beneath the wrappings of mummified animals.

From birds to crocodiles, lions and beetles, the ancient Egyptians had a penchant for mummifying animals. While some were pets buried with their owners, millions of animals were killed and mummified as votive offerings to the gods.