- Scientists study ancient climate and animals.
- They look at bones from many museums.
- The research looks at carnivorans and bodies.
- Ancestors had long bodies and small ears.
- Two big climate changes changed animal shapes.
- One change came very long ago.
- Another change came later in Earth history.
- The study shows when shapes became different.
- This helps explain the many body types.
- Scientists say more work is needed.
Difficult words
- scientist — A person who studies nature and facts.Scientists
- climate — The usual weather in a place over time.
- museum — A building where old things are kept.museums
- research — A careful study to learn new information.
- carnivoran — An animal that eats other animals.carnivorans
- ancestor — A past family member or older animal.Ancestors
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you like going to museums?
- Have you seen animal bones in a museum?
- Do you find ancient animals interesting?
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