Aurochs

extinct · ancient cattle · massive horns · Holocene

Huge Wild Ancestor. The aurochs was the wild ancestor of all modern domestic cattle. Bulls stood nearly 6 feet tall at the shoulder, making them one of the biggest plant-eating animals of their time.

Roamed Old Europe. Aurochs lived across Europe and parts of Asia during a time period called the Holocene. They preferred forests and grasslands where they could find plenty to eat.

Spectacular Horns. Their massive horns stretched up to 31 inches long and curved outward in a dramatic way. These impressive horns helped them defend themselves from predators.

Gone Forever. The last aurochs died in Poland around 1627, making them completely extinct. People hunted them and destroyed their forest homes until none were left.

DNA Still Here. Even though aurochs are gone, their genes live on in modern cattle breeds. Scientists have studied ancient aurochs bones to learn about these magnificent creatures.