NOVA - Season 53 - Eps 4: Mammal Origins
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 animals faced extinction events, outlived giants, and ultimately gave rise to the diverse world of mammals we know today, including us.
About NOVA
Title: NOVA
First Air Date: 1974-03-03
Last Air Date: 2025-11-12
Status: Returning Series
Rating: 6.993/10 (from 134 votes)
Language: EN
Seasons: 54
Total Episodes: 1017
Network: PBS
Genres: Documentary
Production Companies: GBH
Synopsis
PBS' premier science series helps viewers of all ages explore the science behind the headlines. Along the way, NOVA demystifies science and technology, and highlights the people involved in scientific pursuits.