The Evolution of the Hoof
The horse’s remarkable ability to run is the result of millions of years of evolutionary change. In this clip from BBC’s Evolution episode "The Horse," follow the development of specialized running limbs, beginning with early mammals such as Phenacodus, whose digitigrade stance allowed for longer and faster strides.
Over time, bones lengthened, muscles became concentrated higher on the legs, and the feet became increasingly streamlined until Equus evolved a single toe and hard hoof. These adaptations made horses extraordinarily efficient runners, while also creating a trade-off: limbs built almost entirely for speed were far less useful for other tasks.
Go on an epic four billion year adventure travelling through time to uncover how life on earth evolved. Learn more.
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