The Giant Deer That Never Existed

Despite its famous nickname, the Irish Elk was neither Irish nor an elk. This prehistoric giant actually belonged to the deer family and once roamed across almost all of Eurasia.

This massive creature stood seven feet tall at the shoulder and carried antlers spanning twelve feet wide. While many call it the Irish Elk, it lived far beyond Ireland and is actually more closely related to modern fallow deer. Scientists think its colossal antlers were likely used to attract mates rather than for combat. These impressive animals survived until recent history, only going extinct about 8,000 years ago.