Falling Far from the Family Tree: 8 Totally Unexpected Animal "Cousins"

So, I was given an assignment to find some the most surprising animal "cousins" - species that are closely related that you wouldn't expect. The major thing I learned from this is basically that I sort animals like a two-year-old. I absolutely would have thought that elephants, hippos, and rhinos were in one group. If it were up to me, I'd re-classify all the animals in a way that makes sense. For example, all the animals that look really cute when they stand up would be in one group, because the fact that meerkats aren't in the same family as otters and weasels is just plain wrong. Alas, it isn't up to me. Just like my own family tree, the animal family system is completely crazy. Enjoy these surprising animal "cousins" - just in time for Cousin's Day on July 24th! - By Joslyn Gray

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