Aired
February 11, 2026
NOVA
NOVA
Mammal Origins #S53E04
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.
Episode 4 of Season 53 from NOVA — available to stream in HD on any device.
Comments & Discussions
Join the conversation
Sign in to leave a comment
No comments yet
Be the first to share your thoughts!
Recommended
Because you liked NOVA
The Real Murders of Atlanta
The Real Murders of Atlanta
24 Hours in Police Custody
24 Hours in Police Custody
Breaking4: Faith Kipyegon vs. the 4-Minute Mile
Breaking4: Faith Kipyegon vs. the 4-Minute Mile
Unexplained: Caught On Camera
Unexplained: Caught On Camera
Súper Sara
Super Sara
Hazardous History with Henry Winkler
Hazardous History with Henry Winkler
Attack on London: Hunting the 7/7 Bombers
Attack on London: Hunting the 7/7 Bombers
To Catch a Stalker
To Catch a Stalker
All the Sharks
All the Sharks
Evil Lives Here: The Killer Speaks
Evil Lives Here: The Killer Speaks
Search for movies, TV shows, collections, manga, or people
Trending Now