Embark on a captivating 59-minute journey through 325 million years of mammalian evolution in this Royal Institution lecture. Explore the remarkable story of mammals from their origins in the shadow of dinosaurs to their dominance in the modern world. Discover how mammals survived Earth's worst catastrophe, rapidly diversified, and ultimately shaped the planet as we know it today. Delve into new fossil finds and cutting-edge technologies that provide unprecedented insights into mammalian evolution, from extinct species like woolly mammoths and saber-toothed tigers to the 6000+ mammal species currently inhabiting Earth. Examine the unique impact of humans on the world and the potential consequences for mammalian biodiversity. Gain a deeper understanding of our shared history and learn how this knowledge can inform efforts to create a better future for all mammals.
Overview
Syllabus
Introduction and background to book
The origin story of mammals
Our distant relative the Dimetrodon
The mega volcanoes responsible for mass extinction
The age of dinosaurs and mammals
Fossils on the Isle of Skye
Feathered dinosaur fossils in China
The Asteroid
The mammals that survived the asteroid
The Eocene - the first recognisable mammals
The Oligocene meets Charles Darwin
The Australian rainforest and marsupials
The ice age
The human age
Taught by
The Royal Institution
