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 rely on indications that these animals were present in the latter part of the third interglacial epoch and persisted through the fourth and final glacial advance, even though central Europe lacked an ice cap. The climate during this period was nearly Arctic with substantial rainfall. This era is known as the Upper Paleolithic, a time when Neanderthals inhabited Europe.