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Wombs with a view: Revolutionary four-dimensional imaging reveals spectacular photos of mammal embryos that already look just like mum

By Daily Mail Reporter

PUBLISHED: 17:36 GMT, 25 August 2012 | UPDATED: 08:15 GMT, 26 August 2012

They may grow to be very different beasts, but these breathtaking images reveal how surprisingly similar the beginning of life can be for the animal kingdom.

Captured using revolutionary four-dimensional imaging technology, scientists have managed to shed light on the world of mammals inside the womb.

As diverse a bunch as they are - elephant, dog, dolphin and penguin are all shown united by their similar stages of development.

An Asian elephant fetus after 12 months in the womb, getting ready to take her first heavy steps in the world

An Asian elephant foetus after 12 months in the womb, catching some shut eye before she takes her first heavy steps in the world in just under a year's time. The gestation period for an elephant is 22 months

A tiny puppy looks already set to pounce as he reaches his full gestation period of around nine weeks

Paw-sing for thought: With tiny paws poised an unborn puppy looks already set to pounce as he reaches his full gestation period of around nine weeks

Say cheese: A baby dolphin seems to be smiling for the camera as he prepares for his big splash

Using revolutionary four-dimensional scanning technology, scientists have captured the images in a National Geographic Documentary called 'Extraordinary Animals in the Womb'.

They were captured by using a combination of three-dimensional ultrasound scans, computer graphics and small cameras to document the animals’ development from conception to birth, and give an unparalleled glimpse into a world that few of us would ever expect to see.