Extinct Megafauna

Extinct megafauna refers to large animals that once roamed the Earth but have disappeared, often thousands to tens of thousands of years ago. Examples include mammoths, giant ground sloths, and saber-toothed cats. These creatures were typically characterized by their size, which often made them dominant in their ecosystems. Extinction of megafauna is believed to result from a combination of natural climate changes and human activities such as hunting and habitat destruction. Studying these animals helps us understand past ecosystems and the impact humans can have on large species and biodiversity.