Indications trusted by geologists and archaeologists combine to show that these animals lived there in the latter part, at least, of the third interglacial epoch, and on through the fourth and last glacial advance, when, although central Europe was free from an ice cap, an almost Arctic climate prevailed, with much rain. This is what is known as the Upper Paleolithic when humanity in Europe was represented by the Neanderthals.
Geologists and archaeologists provide evidence that these animals were present in the latter part of the third interglacial epoch and persisted through the fourth glacial advance. During this period, even though central Europe was ice-free, an Arctic-like climate prevailed with significant rainfall. This era is known as the Upper Paleolithic, a time when Neanderthals inhabited Europe.