The age of the fossils of the first tailed animals is, according to experts, hundreds of millions of years.
The very first fish, according to scientists,used their tails (which were fan-shaped) as fins. That is, they helped them move in the ocean and escape from predators. In the process of evolution, some fish began to turn into creatures that live on land. Modern insects, birds, reptiles, etc. use their own tails for a variety of purposes.
For example,to maintain balance and aid in locomotion. The tail is believed to have helped dinosaursmove on two legs, since in this way a balance was achieved between the heavy head and body of the creature. Thanks to this, the dinosaur could run fast. Today, kangaroos use their tails for balance and movement. Cats need a tail for balance, monkeys – to maintain balance and to hold on to tree branches.
Some animals' tails have becomemeans of protection. For example, in stingrays (tail with a sting), poisonous rattlesnakes. At the same time, wasps can use their tail not only to sting, but alsolay eggs.
Giraffes, wildebeest, North American bison, horses, domestic cows are distinguished by the fact that their tails – with tufts of long hair. Thanks to them theybrush off insects.
Birds need tails to maintain balance.to control the flight and reduce resistance during it. Turkeys and peacocks also use their tails asa way to attract the attention of females.
Animals that go hunting and live in groups (for example, wolves) put their tails in a special way so thatdesignate your rank.
Dogs can use their tail"communicate" with others. For example, if they are excited, they will wag their tails.
Scientists believe that human ancestors oncewere tails. However, they disappeared about 20 million years ago. Why did it happen? The fact is that during this period people began to walk straight, so they no longer needed to maintain balance with the help of the tail.