How big were woolly mammoths compared to modern humans? Explore the massive size and height difference between these extinct giants and people. Complete mammoth size comparison guide.
The woolly mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) was one of the most iconic megafauna of the Ice Age, standing as giants among prehistoric animals. These magnificent creatures roamed the northern regions of Earth for thousands of years, and their impressive size continues to captivate our imagination today.
Adult woolly mammoths reached impressive heights of 2.7 to 3.4 meters (9-11 feet) at the shoulder, making them significantly larger than modern elephants. Males typically weighed between 4-6 tons, while females were slightly smaller at 3-4 tons. Their most distinctive features included long, curved tusks that could reach up to 4 meters in length and a thick coat of fur adapted for cold climates.
When comparing mammoth size to humans, the scale difference is truly remarkable. An average adult human (1.75m tall) would barely reach the mammoth's knee level. The mammoth's shoulder height was nearly twice that of a tall human, creating an awe-inspiring size differential that demonstrates why these creatures dominated their Ice Age ecosystem.
Woolly mammoths inhabited the mammoth steppe, a vast ecosystem that stretched across northern Asia, Europe, and North America during the Pleistocene epoch. They thrived in cold, dry grasslands and were perfectly adapted to temperatures as low as -40°C, thanks to their thick fur and fat layers.
Scientists and companies like Colossal Biosciences are working on mammoth de-extinction projects, using advanced genetic engineering to potentially bring back woolly mammoths by combining mammoth DNA with Asian elephant genetics. These efforts aim to restore Arctic ecosystems and combat climate change.
Compare the sizes of Woolly Mammoth (Adult), Adult Male (For reference only) using our interactive visualization tool.
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Mammuthus primigenius
Height: 3.0m • Weight: 8.0t
Height: 1.8m • Weight: 80kg
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