so "genetic algorithm" is kinda what your describing, and it is rarely use in AI other than for "hyper parameter optimization"
"sentient" is more of a philosophical distinction, and has so many different definitions that it is basically meaningless as a term unless more actually defined. mostly humans use it to feel special.
all creatures have evolved.
there is no "advanced" like there is a end goal.
humans are not more advance than a fish when both are in water, humans are not more advanced than a sloth when both in low calorie environment, humans are not smarter than a gorilla when you're both lost in the forest.
if creatures live then the live, if they die then they die.