Paleogene Period

66-23 million years ago

About this Period

Rise of mammals after dinosaur extinction

Detailed Overview

The Paleogene period marked a significant transition in Earth's history following the extinction of the dinosaurs. This period saw the rapid diversification and evolution of mammals, birds, and flowering plants. The early Paleogene was characterized by a warm global climate, which supported the spread of dense forests across much of the planet. Key developments included the emergence of many modern mammal orders, including early primates, and the evolution of the first whales from land-dwelling ancestors.

Creatures from this Period