|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Get Involved |
Mammals evolved from reptiles about 220 million years ago. After the extinction of dinosaurs around 65 million years ago, mammals diversified to fill the many vacated niches in a wide range of habitats. Mammals such as bats now patrol the skies, whales and dolphins inhabit the seas, and animals as diverse as otters and elephants fill habitats across the land.
![]() |
FelinesThe wild relatives of the domesticated house cat include some of the planet's most graceful predators. |
![]() |
CaninesWolves, foxes and other canines are hardy and adaptable, altering their habits and behavior to make the most of the habitat. |
![]() |
OttersFound in rivers around the world, the otter family also includes some sea-faring species. |
![]() |
Whales and DolphinsThe cetacean family includes the world's largest animal... and some of the most intelligent. |
![]() |
African ElephantAs the largest land animal, the African bush elephant reaches up to 24 feet in length and 13 feet in height. |
![]() |
BeaverLearn why no species, other than humans, can change the landscape as much as the beaver. |
![]() |
BisonThe largest land mammal in North America, adult males may stand as tall as six feet at the shoulders and weigh 1000-2000 pounds. |
![]() |
Brown BearAre brown bears really dangerous? Learn why the threat of them attacking you is greatly exaggerated. |
![]() |
Greater KuduThe greater kudu is found throughout eastern and southern Africa, in mixed woodlands, bushlands, hills and mountains. |
![]() |
HippopotamusThe hippopotamus is a large, mostly plant-eating mammal found in rivers and lakes throughout Africa. |
![]() |
MooseThe largest of the deer, moose can grow as long as 10 feet and weigh as much as 1200 pounds. |
![]() |
Pine MartenThe pine marten ranges in forests and woodlands across Alaska, Canada, and the northern United States. |
![]() |
DugongDugongs occupy a large range arcing along the coast of east Africa, across south Asia, and down to Australia. |
![]() |
West Indian ManateeThe manatee occupies the same niche in Ameircan waters that its cousin, the dugong, holds in Asia. |
Nature picture credits (left to right): Photo © Joshua Haviv (Puma); Photo © Mundy Hacket (Red Fox); Photo © Bruce Sanford (NA River Otter); Photo © Martin Purmensky (Bottlenose Dolphin); Photo © Robert Hardholt (African Elephants); Photo © Joe Hamilton/The Nature Conservancy (Beaver); Photo © Chris Helzer (Bison); Photo © Janet Haas (Brown Bear); Photo © Mike Parry / Minden Pictures (Dugong); Photo © Photos.com (Greater Kudu); Photo © Steven Allan (Hippopotamus); Photo © Philip Puleo (Moose); Photo © Marcus Lindström (Pine Marten); Photo © T. L. Schrichte (West Indian Manatee).