The Mystery of the Woolly Mammoths

What led to the extinction of woolly mammoths?

Answer:

The woolly mammoths, a creature that began extinction about 10,000 years ago, are believed to be closely related to modern elephants. Their genomes share a 98 to 99-percent similarity.

Woolly mammoths, the majestic creatures that once roamed the Earth, faced extinction around 10,000 years ago. Despite their impressive size and strength, various factors contributed to their decline and eventual disappearance from the planet. One major reason for their extinction is the changing climate.

During the last ice age, the Earth experienced significant changes in temperature and environment. As the climate warmed up and the ice began to retreat, the habitats of woolly mammoths also changed. This shift in climate led to alterations in vegetation and food sources, making it challenging for these massive creatures to find enough sustenance to survive.

Furthermore, human hunting is another factor that significantly impacted the population of woolly mammoths. Early human hunters, seeking food and resources, targeted these creatures for their meat, tusks, and bones. The hunting pressure from humans, combined with the challenges posed by climate change, made it difficult for woolly mammoths to thrive.

As a result, the population of woolly mammoths dwindled over time until they eventually went extinct. However, their legacy lives on through scientific research and the study of their genetic resemblance to modern elephants.