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Mass Extinction

Mass Extinction

What caused the mother of all extinctions 250 million years ago?

Prime Suspects

Examine a lineup of possible culprits in the Permian extinction, vote for your favorite, then see what paleontologist Doug Erwin thinks.

Extinction Happens

In this audio dispatch, hear why we shouldn't take Earth's hospitable climate for granted.

Cosmic Perspective

Has Planet Earth reached a dead end? Maybe we should ask ourselves. Watch online.

Ask the Expert

The Smithsonian's Doug Erwin answers viewer questions about the Permian and other mass extinctions.