In a remarkable discovery in County Limerick, an intrepid excavator stumbled upon the remains of an Irish elk, a majestic creature from a bygone era. Carefully excavating the site, they unearthed the ancient bones, revealing a magnificent specimen that had rested undisturbed for countless centuries. The preservation of the elk’s bones is astonishing, considering the extensive time that has passed since these creatures roamed the Earth.

This colossal creature, now extinct, raises intriguing questions about its existence and demise. While several instances of such finds are documented on the continent, Ireland is undoubtedly the homeland of this majestic beast. It is believed to have wandered the Irish landscapes countless years ago, meeting its end through natural causes or possibly encountering predators, with humans not having reached Ireland during that period.

The lack of evidence of human involvement in the extinction of these creatures suggests that Ireland was a vast, treeless expanse at the time. The discovery of oak remains, measuring four feet in circumference, near the elk’s remains further supports the notion that trees thrived long after the extinction of these remarkable animals.

This significant find adds to the tapestry of Ireland’s ancient natural history. The unveiling of the elk’s remains prompts contemplation about the landscapes they once roamed and the mysteries surrounding their ultimate fate. The credit for this remarkable discovery goes to Mr Williams, the esteemed naturalist located in Dame Street, Dublin.

Northern Whig – Saturday 01 September 1906