What makes a mammal a mammal?

Skeleton:

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

Breathing:

All mammals have lungs to breathe air.

Skin:

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.