This is a section of Wooly Mammoth tusk. Mammoths lived from about 150,000 years ago to around 1,700 B.C. It is thought to be the first species where man contributed to extinction through over hunting (along with climate change). Tusks could grow to 15 or 16 feet (4.5 meters) long and weigh hundreds of pounds. This section is about 4 inches (10 cm) across and 15 inches (38 cm) long. The tusks were also similar to trees in that you can count the "rings" to determine how old they were when they died (the outside layer is even called the "bark"). This was a very young mammoth, only about 11 years old. They were known to live to about 50-60 years old. It is against the law in most areas to own ivory, but prehistoric ivory is perfectly legal. I got this specimen for my fossil collection about 20 years ago, it's approximately 50,000 years old. (5 years and 2921 days ago)
wow, thanks for the photo and the information, very interesting. Great shot too.
great shot and so interesting
The color and focus are amazing, and the back story makes the photo even more interesting. Great job!
Howdie stranger!
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