Irish Elk (5,200 B.C.)

From Ireland to Siberia, Irish Elk (Megaloceros giganteus) populated much of northern Europe at the end of the last glacial period. Since they have little in common with extant elk species, they are more precisely known as “giant deer.” They could grow up to seven feet tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 700kg. Their antlers were the largest of any deer species, reaching 12 feet in width. It is likely that the sizable antlers evolved through sexual selection, as males used them to intimidate rivals and impress females.