megafauna
Megafauna refers to large animals, typically weighing over 100 pounds (45 kilograms), that lived during the Pleistocene epoch and beyond. Examples of megafauna include the woolly mammoth, saber-toothed cat, and giant ground sloth. These animals often occupied 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. Today, conservation efforts focus on protecting remaining large animals, such as elephants and rhinos.