Megaloceros

The Megaloceros is a breathtaking sight in the wild, with antlers so grand they’re often mistaken for tree branches from a distance. Many consider seeing a Great Elk to be a sign of luck, though wise hunters and travelers know to respect the creatures' space. Legends claim that the Megaloceros' antlers hold the power to ward off evil spirits and heal wounds, leading some to risk the dangers of the hunt to acquire even a fragment of these natural wonders. For most, however, simply glimpsing one of these ancient beasts is reward enough.

Basic Information

Ecology and Habitats

Megaloceros, also known as the "Great Elk," roams the vast, open grasslands and temperate woodlands, particularly in highland valleys where shrubs and tall grasses provide ample grazing. These massive herbivores prefer undisturbed regions with plenty of foliage, and they are often found near rivers or lakes where they can drink and rest in safety. Their impressive antlers, which can grow up to twelve feet wide, make navigating dense forests challenging, so they generally avoid thick woodlands.

Behaviour

Generally peaceful grazers, Megaloceros travel in small herds led by a dominant male. They are social animals, relying on the group's watchfulness to alert them to approaching danger. During the autumn mating season, the males engage in dramatic antler clashes to establish dominance and win mates, filling the valleys with the sound of clashing antlers. Outside of the breeding season, these creatures are mostly passive, only displaying aggression if threatened or cornered.