Overhunting: Irish deer were prized for their antlers and meat. Excessive hunting by humans put further pressure on the already-diminishing deer populations. The large size and distinctive antlers of Irish deer made them easy targets for hunters, contributing to their eventual demise.
Climate Change: During the Pleistocene epoch, the Earth experienced significant fluctuations in climate. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns affected the vegetation composition and availability of food for herbivores like Irish deer. The deer may have struggled to adapt to the changing environmental conditions, potentially contributing to their decline.
Competition: The presence of other large herbivores, such as elk and reindeer, may have competed with Irish deer for food and resources. Competition for limited resources could have further stressed the deer populations and made them more vulnerable to the other factors that contributed to their extinction.
Genetic Factors: Some researchers suggest that genetic factors, such as inbreeding or a lack of genetic diversity, may have played a role in the decline of Irish deer. Reduced genetic diversity could have made the deer more susceptible to diseases or other environmental challenges.
It is important to note that the exact reasons for the extinction of Irish deer are complex and still subject to ongoing research and debate among scientists. The combination of habitat loss, overhunting, climate change, competition, and genetic factors likely played a role in the decline and eventual extinction of this iconic species.