When did cuteness evolve?

[Gelatinous squid]

We seem to find the young of many baby animals cute, even animals far separated from us on the evolutionary tree, like birds.  Clearly there is a limit since we don't find baby spiders or flies cute. But why should we, as mammals, find baby birds cute? We have no evolutionary imperative to protect the young of birds. 

[Fossildude19]

It's actually our ability to empathize, more than the actual looks of the animal youngsters that would be in question here.

At least, that is more what it sounds like you are asking. Not everyone finds different animal offspring "cute"  That is a subjective thing.

When did we develop a sense of caring and empathy for creatures other than our own offspring? should be the question.

[Bringing Fossils to Life]

Because many vertebrates have similar proportions as young, they may trigger our brains, or maybe we simply want to help these creatures out of the goodness of our hearts.

You may find this helpful:

https://ed.ted.com/lessons/why-do-you-want-to-squeeze-cute-things-joshua-paul-dale

[Kane]

So I'm not supposed to eat babies? Now you tell me.  

[FossilDAWG]

5 minutes ago, Kane said:

So I'm not supposed to eat babies? Now you tell me.  

I thought I saw you in Austin Powers!

 

Don

[FossilNerd]

12 minutes ago, Kane said:

So I'm not supposed to eat babies? Now you tell me.  

Even cute little bunnies have been know to eat their young. I know I’ve thought about eating my own a time or two! Hahaha! 

 

 

Simply put, beauty (or cuteness) is in the eyes of the beholder. 
 

35 minutes ago, Gelatinous squid said:

Clearly there is a limit since we don't find baby spiders or flies cute.

 

Case in point…. I’m a fan of spiders and find the little babies to be cute where as, based on your statement, you do not.   

Edited October 16, 2023 by FossilNerd

[Tidgy's Dad]

I genuinely find human babies shuddersome.

Tidgy is cute.

So are very small orthids.

And wifey's nose.

Edited October 16, 2023 by Tidgy's Dad