Megafauna Facts: 8 Unique Large Species That Became Extinct From Glyptodon to Megalodon

The animal kingdom is home to various species, from the smallest to the largest. Thousand or millions of years ago, megafauna used to exist on Earth but eventually became extinct.

Using advanced technology and fossil discoveries, researchers can provide new information about prehistoric life. Understanding the existence of now-extinct large animals can offer new knowledge about present animals.

Megafauna animals are mega or gigantic animals that once lived on the planet. These species are known for their unique appearance and massive size, from gigantic armadillos to 50-foot-long sharks.

1. Megalodon

A Megalodon on display
(Photo : by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Megalodons are among the most recognizable gigantic animals in the oceans. These species are often featured in films and TV shows, detailing their strong bites and aggressive behavior. According to reports, the megalodon lived on the seafloor over 500 feet.

The gigantic sea creatures became extinct around 2.6 million years ago. While the reason is still unknown, it is likely due to environmental changes, including increasing competition against other predators.

2. Paraceretherium

Paraceretheriums existed 34 million years ago in the Asian Plains, reaching over 15 feet when they stood on their legs. The herbivore animals loved to consume shrubs and leaves. Temperature fluctuations and environmental changes are blamed for their extinction.

3. Giant Beaver

Next on the list is the giant beavers. They were found in North America and the Great Lakes. Reports noted that these species can reach 200 pounds and grow up to eight feet. Additionally, they experienced extinction around 11,000 years ago.

4. Megalania

The Megalania animals are believed to have existed during the Pleistocene period. These lizards, which reached a maximum length of 23 feet, were found in Australia, making them one of the biggest reptiles.

The explanation for their extinction is still a mystery, but records show they became extinct 40,000 years ago.

5. Argentavis

According to a report, Argentavis was discovered in South America. These enormous birds had a wingspan of almost 24 feet. This animal became extinct around six million years ago due to climatic changes and predation.

6. Deinosuchus

Deinosuchus was mostly found in the rivers in North America during the Cretaceous period. These animals are similar to crocodiles, reaching heights up to 35 feet, and they have powerful jaws that shatter their prey's bones. However, the crocodile-like animal went extinct around 66 million years ago.

Also Read: Egg-Laying Mammals That Lived with Dinosaurs 100 Million Years Ago Unearthed from Australian Fossils

7. Glyptodon

Gyptodons used to live in South America. These animals are related to armadillos, which their appearance is similar. Reports explain that Gyptodons had ferocious looks and were protected by strong bone planets to protect them from predator attacks.

Even if they were massive, Gyptodons were also threatened. The animals were likely to become extinct at least 10,000 years ago due to increasing wildlife competition and environmental changes.

Also Read: Ancient Ant Fossil from 100 Million Years Ago Reveals Primitive Ants Had 'Complex Social Lives' [Study]

8. Ground Sloth

In South America, ground sloths, known as Megatherium, were discovered. Amazingly, the animals, reaching over 20 feet, could stand on their hind legs.

Another aspect of these sloths is their eating habits. They consumed leaves and fruits to obtain significant nutrition for survival. Additionally, ground sloths suffered from extinction around 11,000 years ago due to environmental changes.