North America was a very different place during the Pleistocene. There were no skyscrapers, no highways, no concrete structures at all. Instead the landscape was wild, with grasses and white spruce forests dominating. This rich environment was filled with incredible creatures, including, amongst many, many more; giant short-faced bears, the weird rhino-like Toxodon, huge bison, the speedy pronghorns, enormous Mastodons, saber-tooth cats, cheetahs, and even the American lion.

Enormous herbivores were hunted and eaten by incredible predators. This was a time when giants succumbed to giants. Enter this world, through the amazing art of Ted Rechlin, where you can experience a snap shot of life in North America 13,000 years ago. Life was unpredictable. Just like the weather.

All images copyright Ted Rechlin (@TedRechlin)

Top text Jan Freedman (@JanFreedman)

Further Reading:

A great post on the Giant short-faced bear here.

A lovely post on the American Lion here.