In this episode of "Mad About Horses", we embark on an incredible journey through the evolutionary history of horses, spanning millions of years. This exploration is crucial for gaining insights into why horses are the way they are today, and is must-know information for any equine enthusiast. Our journey begins 65 million years ago, in a vastly different world from what we know today. The Earth was home to a wide array of fantastical creatures, including Tyrannosaurus Rex and other reptiles inhabiting the land, air, and sea. However, a massive asteroid impact near modern-day Mexico led to the fifth mass extinction, resulting in the loss of approximately 76% of all species on Earth, including dinosaurs. Remarkably, some species, such as early mammals, managed to survive by seeking refuge in caves or underground environments protected from the devastating aftermath. The recovery of Earth took thousands of years, marking the transition from the age of dinosaurs to the age of mammals. Ten million years after the asteroid impact, a small creature known as Eohippus, or the dawn horse, emerged. This creature was about the size of a small border collie, standing at approximately 12 inches (30 centimeters) at the shoulder. Eohippus roamed dense forests, feasting on leaves and branches and its evolution set the stage for the magnificent equids we know today. We discuss the importance of understanding horse evolution to provide insights into their behaviors, dietary preferences, and physical characteristics, such as the unique single hoof. We explore key concepts such as natural selection and how environmental changes over time drive the evolution of species. Just as we see real-time evolution in antibiotic resistance, horses and other species have undergone gradual changes over millennia, accumulating genetic mutations and adaptations. We also learn why horse fossils are more abundant than those of many other species, providing valuable insights into their evolutionary history. The paleontological record serves as a window into the distant past and helps us reconstruct the story of the horse's evolution. As we traverse the vast timeline of horse evolution, we touch on different epochs and species, from Eohippus to Merichippus to Dinohippus, leading us to the modern genus Equus. Equus is the ancestor of today's horses and includes various species like zebras, wild asses, and Przewalski's horses. Not only is the history of the horse fascinating, but also essential for appreciating these remarkable creatures that have been our companions and partners for centuries. In the next episode, we will continue deeper on this journey, exploring the development of modern equids and their global distribution. ---------------------------------- "Mad About Horses" with Dr. Chris Mortensen PhD is the definitive podcast for all equine enthusiasts. Presented by Mad Barn, this podcast delves deep into the multifaceted universe of the horse and how we can make the world a better place for all equids. Dr. Mortensen is a renowned equine scientist and educator, who brings his passion for horses and his wealth of knowledge to diverse topics ranging from the ancient history of horse domestication to the latest advances in equine health, training and management. Whether you're a professional rider, a horse breeder, or someone who simply loves the sound of hooves on a morning trail, Mad About Horses is your weekly dose of all things equine. Visit https://madbarn.com/mad-about-horses/ to learn more. --------------------------------- Mad Barn Academy is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers and practitioners through research, training and education. Visit us to learn more at https://madbarn.com You can also find Mad Barn at: ⁠Instagram @madbarnequine⁠ Facebook @madbarnequine TikTok @madbarnequine ⁠YouTube @madbarn We would love to hear from you! Please send any questions or comments to ⁠podcast@madb