One hypothesis is that the antlers became larger and larger under the influence of sexual selection – males used them in fighting for access to females. The question arises, however, why do giant deer needed such large and heavy antlers? There are several theories on this subject. Certainly, it would make an amazing impression on the observers. We will not find such powerful antlers in any animal today. Irish elk, Giant deer, Irish deer (Megaloceros giganteus) Antler functions Beautiful antlers, however, were not light – they could weigh up to 40 kg (88 lb). Its dimensions therefore resembled modern Alaskan moose ( Alces alces gigas).Ī characteristic feature of this creature was huge antlers, reaching a maximum span of 3.65 m (12 ft). 2 m high (6.5 ft) at the withers and could reach a weight of 540-600 kg (1,190 – 1,323 lb) the largest known specimens could weigh up to 700 kg (1,540 lb) and more. Irish elk, Giant deer, Irish deer (Megaloceros giganteus) Characteristic Appearance They lived all over Europe, as well as northern Asia and Africa. Most of the giant deer bones were dug from Irish soil, but these animals were not closely related to this land. The youngest found remains of this mighty mammal are estimated at around 7,700 years. Most of the discovered remains of the giant deer are dated to around 11,000 years ago, but the first representatives of this species appeared on our planet around 400,000 years ago, in the Pleistocene period. Irish elk, Giant deer, Irish deer (Megaloceros giganteus) Dating and occurrence Could this “crown” be the curse of the giant deer? How could antlers contribute to the extinction of an entire species? We will try to answer these questions in the article. It certainly emphasizes its most distinct features – the large size of the body and the antlers crowning its head. It is not without reason, therefore, that the giant deer received its name. One of the largest deer that ever lived, and also possessor of the largest antlers among the known members of this family.
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