We are currently in the Phanerozoic Eon, specifically within the Cenozoic Era, which began around 66 million years ago and continues to the present day.
The Cenozoic Era is often referred to as the ‘Age of Mammals’ because it is characterized by the rise and dominance of mammals following the extinction of the dinosaurs at the end of the Mesozoic Era. This era is further divided into three periods: the Paleogene, Neogene, and Quaternary. Each of these periods has distinct characteristics in terms of climate and the types of flora and fauna present.
As we explore the geological timeline, it’s essential to recognize that the Cenozoic will eventually become history and will be studied by future geologists as they classify our current era. Now, the Anthropocene is a proposed epoch that highlights the significant impact humans have on the Earth’s geology and ecosystems, but its formal recognition is still debated.