It’s a Dog, It’s a Deer, It’s a… Whale?

Let’s start with a picture and a little game: the animal below is the ancient ancestor of some of the planet’s most remarkable creatures. Take a guess which ones…

Source: Wikimedia

This is the Ambulocetus natans. Contrary to their furry, less than aquatic looking exterior, they are the ancient cousins of modern whales. How did whales go from hairy animals that ruled river deltas, to the remarkable creatures we know and love today?

Luckily, you don’t have to hear a clunky explanation of whale evolution from me! Today, we are sharing a video from one of our new favorite YouTube Channels in the PBS Digital Studios family, PBS Eons. They are a phenomenal resource for all things prehistoric (and one of my favorite YouTube Channels to watch in my spare time).

Without further delay, let’s meet the Ambulocetus natans…

Evolution works in remarkable ways!

In such a short time in evolutionary history, whale ancestors went from tiny deer-like creatures to enormous masters of the sea. This turn of evolution shows the fascinating ways that natural selection has filled every available niche for life on this planet. Also, how competition for the precious resources that a species thrives on, and how environmental shifts force life to “find a way”.

Dive in a Little Deeper…

Additionally, If you want to learn more about how modern-day whales live and thrive, and the critical role they (and their poop) plays in our planet ecosystems, we suggest you explore the following articles we’ve written to see more!

There you have it! A bit more insight into the lives and history of some of our planet’s most remarkable creatures. These evolutionary stories are a fascinating way to find connection in obscure places on this planet, and a reminder of how interconnected the story of life is on Earth.

Stay beautiful & keep laughing!

-Liesl