Mammal Origins -
nova

Uncover the surprising ancient origins of mammals, a story that began long before the dinosaurs' reign. Surveying Earth's tumultuous past reveals how some of our earliest ancestors, the therapsids - creatures that looked like reptiles but were starting to develop mammalian traits - survived multiple global catastrophes. Through remarkable adaptations like burrowing and the emergence of warm-bloodedness, they forged a lineage that persevered against all odds. Fascinating fossil clues and cutting-edge science reveal how a small, resilient group of therapsids faced extinction events, outlived giants, and ultimately gave rise to the diverse world of mammals we know today, including us.

Duration: 56 minutes and 46 seconds

Episode Number: 5304

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