Weighing around 1,500 pounds and rivaling a large moose in size, the extinct Irish elk (Megaloceros giganteus) was actually a giant deer. Originally discovered in bog deposits in Ireland, this animal lived throughout Europe, northern Africa, and northern Asia. Its enormous antlers, some of which reached a 13-foot spread, were used in ritualized combat between males. Adapted to live on grassy terrain, this elk became extinct some 10,000 years ago, possibly because of habitat loss. . . . . #amnh #naturalhistorymuseum #history #nyc #newyork #usa #jpmcc #travel #vacation #usai #theodoreroosevelt #upperwestside #astrophysics #nature #eatdrawgram #nycback #chancellorsday #professionaldevelopment #uws #dinosaurs #trexarms #dinosaur #blessedandhighlyfavored #igdaily #igersoftheday #picoftheday #photooftheday