![10.jpg](https://steemitimages.com/DQmNUgrfM87RzfALRMvspnmBnZojaSEQtNciHVUregLTBTq/10.jpg)

Megaloceros giganteus - From Ireland to Siberia, Irish Elk populated much of northern Europe at the end of the last glacial period. As they have little in common with extant elk species, they are more precisely known as `giant deer'. They could grow up to 7 feet tall at the shoulder, and weigh up to 700 kg. 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 would have used them to intimidate rivals, and impress females.

Irish Elk evolved around 400,000 years ago, and died out approximately 5,000 years ago. It is likely that hunting by humans contributed to their extinction. However, the retreating ice would have allowed different plants to flourish, which could have led to a lack of dietary minerals. In particular, a good supply of calcium was needed to grow the animal's massive antlers.

source by https://owlcation.com/stem/Top-10-Most-Beautiful-Extinct-Animals