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During the neolithic period, alligators probably lived along the east coast of China, including southern Shandong
The earliest alligator drums, comprising a wooden frame covered with alligator skin, are found in the archaeological sites at Dawenkou. Particularly in Tai’an, Shandong; and, several sites of Longshan.

Its believed they were often used in ritual ceremonies, and in ritual ceremonies (1)
Used in shamanistic rituals and ceremonies.

It mentioned in the Chinese classic of poetry or “Shijing”

It reflect beliefs and cultural practices of these early people
Highlighting their connection to music, ritualism(s) and tradition.

Clay and alligator hides, were used in ceremonial contexts and are significant in understanding the traditions of ancient China.

Frequency ranges from 4100 to 2600 Hz, with an amplitude of 3000 to 2000 dB

Made from clay, wood; and, alligator hides, and bound together. The alligator drum is a type of drum once used in neolithic China. They may have been used to invoke rain & connect with spiritual forces. Check it out with some more neolithic architecture today.

Cite: (1) Liu, Li (2007). The Chinese Neolithic: Trajectories to Early States. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0-521-01064-0. Pg. 123

Bibliography: Sterckx, Roel (2002). The Animal and the Daemon in Early China. New York: State University of New York Press. ISBN 0-7914-5270-0.

Sagart, Laurent (January 2008). “The expansion of Setaria farmers in East Asia” (https://www.academia.edu/3077307). Past Human Migrations in East Asia: Matching

Allan, Sarah (ed), The Formation of Chinese Civilization: An Archaeological Perspective, ISBN 0-300-09382-9

Goodenough, Ward (1996). Prehistoric Settlement of the Pacific, Volume 86, Part 5