Mammals are a class of vertebrates (beings with backbones) characterized by warm-blood, which allows them to live in almost every climate, hairy bodies, a four-chambered heart, a single jaw bone, sweat glands and - in females - mammary glands for suckling young. Some mammals, such as naked mole rats and whales have lost some or all of their hair. Almost all mammals give birth to live young, but there are a few that lay eggs. These are known as monotremes, and include the platypus.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/life/Mammal
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Optional Additional InformationWords to KnowMammary Gland Modified sweat glands that produce and secrete milk. Only mammals can produce milk.
Diaphram A sheet of muscle behind the lungs that separates the chest cavity from the cavity. It serves to expand the chest during inhalation, drawing more oxygen in to the lungs. Three Types of Mammals Placental, pouched, and monotremes Monotreme Has hair and mammary glands, yet lays eggs. Found in Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea Placental Gives birth to young that have developed in the mother's uterus. Gestation The time during which the placental mammal develops in the uterus. Pouched (Marsupials) Develop for a short period of time in the mother's body and are born underdeveloped. Upon birth, a second development occurs in a pouch outside of the mother's body. Glands Description of the word data data. Groups of cells that secrete fluids. Endothermic Warm-blooded. Ectothermic Cold-blooded Check out these words and more! Get the full word list here. |
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