I think it is misleading for elders to say that mankind are mammals because that is not what J W's teach (well, not exactly)
Creation Book p 81.82
"Physically, man fits the general definition of a mammal. However, one evolutionist stated: “No more tragic mistake could be made than to consider man ‘merely an animal.’ Man is unique; he differs from all other animals in many properties, such as speech, tradition, culture, and an enormously extended period of growth and parental care.” 28 What sets man apart from all other creatures on earth is his brain."