Last updated: 4th August 2025
Extinct Animals by Location
Where they were found
The distribution of ancient animals across the globe provides critical clues about plate tectonics, climate change, and migration patterns. This section organises our featured animals by the continents where their most significant fossil remains have been discovered. This helps to paint a picture of how different parts of the world supported unique megafauna during prehistoric times.
Select a continent from the list below to discover the fascinating animals that once lived there.
Continent
Africa
For much of the Cenozoic, Africa remained relatively isolated, leading to the evolution of unique and specialised fauna. This continent is considered the birthplace of early hominids and the site of significant evolutionary events for proboscideans (elephants) and other mammals.
Eurasia
Eurasia was a vast landmass where many modern animal groups originated and spread. During the Pleistocene Ice Age, it was home to megafauna such as woolly mammoths and cave lions. The formation and destruction of land bridges to North America and Africa allowed for massive migrations.
North America
North America was connected to Eurasia by the Bering land bridge during glacial periods. It was a continent of great change, hosting a diverse range of animals like saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and Columbian mammoths. The Great American Interchange during the Pliocene also dramatically reshaped its ecosystem.
South America
Like Africa, South America was an isolated continent for much of the Cenozoic. This allowed for the evolution of unique megafauna, including giant ground sloths and terror birds. When it connected to North America via the Isthmus of Panama, it led to a dramatic shake-up of its native species.
You may also be intrested in:
- Extinct Animals: A-Z
- Dinosaurs: A-Z
Tags: Africa, Eurasia, North America, South America, Cenozoic Era,
© 2012 science-resources.co.uk. All rights reserved | Design by W3layouts
Extinct Animals by Location
Where they were found
The distribution of ancient animals across the globe provides critical clues about plate tectonics, climate change, and migration patterns. This section organises our featured animals by the continents where their most significant fossil remains have been discovered. This helps to paint a picture of how different parts of the world supported unique megafauna during prehistoric times.
Select a continent from the list below to discover the fascinating animals that once lived there.
Continent
Africa
For much of the Cenozoic, Africa remained relatively isolated, leading to the evolution of unique and specialised fauna. This continent is considered the birthplace of early hominids and the site of significant evolutionary events for proboscideans (elephants) and other mammals.
Eurasia
Eurasia was a vast landmass where many modern animal groups originated and spread. During the Pleistocene Ice Age, it was home to megafauna such as woolly mammoths and cave lions. The formation and destruction of land bridges to North America and Africa allowed for massive migrations.
North America
North America was connected to Eurasia by the Bering land bridge during glacial periods. It was a continent of great change, hosting a diverse range of animals like saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and Columbian mammoths. The Great American Interchange during the Pliocene also dramatically reshaped its ecosystem.
South America
Like Africa, South America was an isolated continent for much of the Cenozoic. This allowed for the evolution of unique megafauna, including giant ground sloths and terror birds. When it connected to North America via the Isthmus of Panama, it led to a dramatic shake-up of its native species.
Tags: Africa, Eurasia, North America, South America, Cenozoic Era,
© 2012 science-resources.co.uk. All rights reserved | Design by W3layouts