What makes a mammal a mammal?animals-2915390_1920


Mammals have a backbone or spine.  They have an endoskeleton (meaning an internal skeletal system).


All mammals have lungs to breathe air.


Mammals have hair on their bodies.

Some have a small amount.


Others have a lot!


 Body Temperature:


Mammals are endothermic (fancy word for “warm-blooded”).  That means that mammals’ bodies regulate their temperature.  It is NOT dependent on the external surroundings. (This means mammals can survive in a variety of climates.)

Babies and Young:

Mammals produce milk to feed their young/babies.  Young mammals stay with their parents longer to get this nourishment and to learn survival skills.  horse-2504677_1920