Physical Characteristics:
* Size: Mammoths varied in size, but some species like the woolly mammoth could reach up to 13 feet tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 12 tons.
* Tusks: Their most distinctive feature was their long, curved tusks, which could grow up to 16 feet long and were used for digging, fighting, and stripping bark from trees.
* Hair: Woolly mammoths were covered in a thick coat of long, shaggy hair, which helped them survive in cold, icy environments.
* Trunk: Like elephants, mammoths had a long, flexible trunk used for grasping, feeding, and communicating.
* Ears: Their ears were relatively small compared to modern elephants, likely to minimize heat loss.
* Feet: They had large, padded feet with thick soles and toes, adapted for walking on snow and ice.
How we know:
* Fossil Evidence: We have a wealth of fossilized mammoth bones, teeth, and even soft tissues, including skin, hair, and internal organs. These fossils allow scientists to reconstruct their skeletal structure, size, and even some of their soft tissues.
* Frozen Mammoths: In Siberia and other Arctic regions, scientists have discovered frozen mammoths, often remarkably well-preserved. This incredible find provides a detailed glimpse into their anatomy and even their diet (through preserved stomach contents).
* Cave Paintings: Ancient cave paintings and carvings from Europe and Asia depict mammoths, providing insights into their appearance and behavior.
* DNA Analysis: By studying mammoth DNA, scientists can learn about their evolutionary relationships, physical characteristics, and even their coloration.
Variations:
It's important to note that different species of mammoths evolved to adapt to their specific environments. For example, the woolly mammoth had thicker hair and smaller ears than other species, which helped it thrive in the harsh conditions of the Arctic. Some mammoths even had furless coats and lived in warmer regions.
Overall, thanks to a combination of fossil evidence, frozen specimens, and other historical sources, we have a detailed understanding of what mammoths looked like and how they evolved.