Artist's notes

Gomphotheres (Notiomastodon platensis) were elephant-like creatures in South America, becoming extinct around 8,000 years ago. They were similar in size to modern Asian elephants but had stockier builds and thick tusks. As the Ice Age ended, the climate in South America became warmer and wetter, shrinking the gomphotheres' suitable habitats. These animals lived in Brazil’s savannahs, Andean slopes, and Argentina’s Pampas, feeding on grasses, tree leaves, and fruit. It’s possible that hunting and climate change contributed to their extinction. Gomphotheres were adaptable and lived up to 60 years, with older individuals guiding the herd to resources.