Unicorns Are More Legit Than You Think

Thanks to carbon dating, scientists have determined that the myth-inspiring animal may have lived among early humans.

By Sarah Jay
Jan 19, 2022 5:00 PM
siberian unicorn rendering
A rendering of the Siberian unicorn. (Credit: Valentyna Chukhlyebova/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

When most people think of unicorns, they imagine mythological medieval horses with a horn protruding from their heads. They might also consider the Chinese conception of unicorns, chimeric entities that represent wealth and prosperity. Or perhaps they envision the Greek interpretation based on Persian depictions of the majestic beast. Cultural variations aside, one thing’s for sure: Many of us likely doubt unicorns ever existed, and cast them aside to the yellowed pages of allegory and fairy tales. 

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.