Interesting Facts You Didn’t Know About Wooly Mammoth

Before the existence of elephants, there were woolly mammoths that once roamed around the world. Considering the similarity to their body structures, these creatures were believed to be ancestors of modern elephants. If you are interested in exploring the world of mammoths, continue reading to find out facts and findings.

Not too big

Contrary to the belief that mammoths were as big as dinosaurs, new evidence shows it otherwise. In history books, you may have come across the word giant to define a mammoth. However, recent studies tell that the woolly mammoth is smaller than other Mammuthus species. A male woolly mammoth stood at about 11 feet while the nearest species the Steppe mammoth’s height was up to 15 feet tall. This means they were about the size of modern African elephants.

Tiny ears

If dinosaurs have memes about their tiny hands, tales of woolly mammoth’s ear is unfortunate but funnier. Their ears were smaller than the ear of the modern elephant. Since they lived in the ice age, their fur coats protect the body and ears from freezing.

Long tusks

As you have seen the image of mammoths in animated shows and science books, you may wonder how big those tusks are. According to fossils found from different regions, tusks of some male mammoths are measured up to 15 feet. These tusks are longer and curvier as compared to female tusks. Studies also show that the animals used their tusks to protect themselves from other predators.

If you want to learn more about woolly mammoths, visit a natural history that exhibits the remains of this extinct animal. Fossil collectors also offer mammoth tusks for sale, so interested individuals can touch and feel the real mammoth.