Category: Mammals
The horse we know today evolved from a small, multi-toed creature that lived 45-55 million years ago. Humans first domesticated horses around 6000 years ago and there are now over 300 breeds of horses, fulfilling roles from agricultural draft-horse to police mount to therapy riding. Human civilization and culture would not be the same without them. Horses are also prominent in the mythologies of many cultures – no doubt owing to their importance in so many realms of ancient life.
Wake me in 9 months…
There may be times when you are so tired you feel as if you could sleep for several days - but of course that is not possible without dying from dehydration. However, some mammals have such fine control over their metabolisms, they are capable of nodding off for days or even months, in a state called hibernation. This helps an animal survive during cold periods when food is scarce. A prime example is the alpine marmot who can hibernate for up to 9 months of the year: gathering food and adding about 50% more body weight (primarily fat) as summer ends, the alpine marmot seals itself in a deep burrow, heart rate slowing to five beats per minute, breathing as little as once per minute - emerging (far lighter!) in May, when food is once again available!
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Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
