Beasts Before Us: The Untold Story of Mammal Origins and Evolution

Beasts Before Us: Uncovering the Emergence of Mammal Evolution Discover the fascinating story of mammal evolution, long before the rise of dinosaurs! In this groundbreaking book, palaeontologist Elsa Panciroli takes you on a journey through time, exploring the emergence of the mammal lineage, Synapsida, from their murky split with reptiles in the Carboniferous period over 300 million years ago.

Learn how our ancient mammal ancestors evolved from large hairy beasts to exploit miniaturisation, unlocking the traits that define mammals as we know them today. Criss-crossing the globe, Elsa visits sites where discoveries are being made and meets the people who make them.

In Scotland, she traverses prehistoric Moray dunes to uncover footprints of Permian creatures from before the time of dinosaurs.

In South Africa, she introduces you to animals once called 'mammal-like reptiles' that gave scientists the first hints of our furry kin's evolution from a lineage of egg-laying burrowers.

In China, new, complete fossilised skeletons reveal mammals that were gliders, shovel-pawed Jurassic moles, and flat-tailed swimmers. Radically reframing the narrative of our mammalian ancestors, this book provides a counterpoint to stereotypes of mighty dinosaur overlords and cowering little mammals.

It turns out the earliest mammals weren't just precursors, they were pioneers! Join Elsa on this thrilling journey through time and discover the fascinating story of how our mammal ancestors took over the world!