Megafauna refers to large animals, typically weighing over 44 kilograms (about 97 pounds), that lived during the Pleistocene epoch and beyond. Examples of megafauna include the woolly mammoth, saber-toothed cat, and giant ground sloth. These creatures roamed various habitats, from grasslands to forests, and played significant roles in their ecosystems. Many megafauna species went extinct around 10,000 years ago, likely due to a combination of climate change and human activities. The study of megafauna helps scientists understand past ecosystems and the impact of environmental changes on large species, providing insights into current biodiversity challenges.