Evolution explained to kids

Evolution is the process by which different species of living organisms develop from earlier forms. Over time, through the process of natural selection, species change and adapt in order to better survive in their environment. The theory of evolution by natural selection was first proposed by British scientist Charles Darwin in 1859. Darwin observed that species in nature vary widely in their characteristics. He also noted that some of these characteristics, such as the size of a bird's beak, can affect an individual's ability to find food and survive. Darwin proposed that the process of natural selection could result in the development of new species over time. He argued that the fittest individuals in a population are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their traits to their offspring. Over time, Darwin suggested, this process could lead to the formation of new species. The theory of evolution by natural selection is supported by a large body of scientific evidence. This evidence comes from many different fields, including paleontology, genetics, and zoology. The theory of evolution is still being studied and refined by scientists today. New discoveries about the process of evolution are constantly being made, providing further support for Darwin's original theory.