1. large animals, especially those of a particular region, period, or environment
Usage: usually used in plural form 'megafauna'; commonly used in paleontology and ecology

Examples

• The megafauna of the Pleistocene included woolly mammoths and saber-toothed cats.
• Scientists study megafauna fossils to understand ancient ecosystems.
• Africa's megafauna, such as elephants and giraffes, attracts tourists from around the world.
• The extinction of megafauna at the end of the Ice Age remains a topic of debate among researchers.
• Modern megafauna in the Amazon rainforest includes jaguars and anacondas.