Ma: Translating long-distance running into marathon means you know I have good endurance?

I am Dong Dong Meow

Talking animals are so fun!

This issue of Animal Science

We approach the talking horse in 60 seconds!

Dongdongmiao came to the vast pasture and saw a horse grazing leisurely.

Dongdong Meow chatted with it: "You horses are really fast when you run. I'm curious, what do you do when you have nothing to do?"

The horse shook its mane and said, "Eat grass, take a walk, and bask in the sun."

Dongdongmeow: "That's it? Then why are you running so fast? To show off?"

Ma: "To escape from you, the annoying cat, of course."

Dongdongmeow: "Hey, I don't eat grass."

Horses are born with excellent endurance and speed. They can run for more than ten kilometers in the fields and easily leave humans behind.

In addition to farming and pulling carts, horses are also good helpers in rural areas for going to markets and delivering goods.

Even though cars have become popular in our country, horses are still an important means of transportation in some remote areas.

Dongdong Miao circled around the horse and asked, "Your legs are so thin, how do you hold up?" The horse proudly raised its front hoof: "This is called a natural running machine. It is flexible because it is thin."

Dongdongmeow: "What about your mane? Doesn't it block my view when I run fast?" Horse: "You don't understand. This is called running with a flowing effect, which makes you look more handsome."

In addition to running wildly on land, horses also have keen perception and a strong sense of teamwork.

In a group of horses, if the leader gives a signal, the other horses will follow suit, like a well-trained team.

One time, Dongdongmiao jumped onto the horse's back when the horse wasn't paying attention and said, "Hey, I want to experience riding a horse!"

When the horse heard this, it suddenly raised its hoof and shook Dongdongmiao off.

Dongdongmeow: "Hey, I haven't sat down yet!"

Horse: "With your weight, you might as well go ride a pig and listen to jokes."

Dongdong Meow muttered, "You guys ran so cool, so I gave you a chance to carry me!"

Popular Science Knowledge

1. Horses have well-developed cardiopulmonary functions and can run for long periods of time.

Horses have extremely developed cardiopulmonary functions and can maintain a stable speed during long-term running, which makes them play an important role in ancient transportation and military.

2. Horseshoes are natural "shock absorbers".

The bottom of the hoof is covered with a layer of hard but elastic keratin, which helps to disperse the impact of the horse's weight on the hoof. The hoof is U-shaped, which is conducive to supporting the horse. The "digital pad" tissue at the bottom of the hoof has excellent cushioning properties, which can effectively absorb the vibration generated when the horse runs, reduce the pressure on the joints and bones, and allow the horse to move long distances more efficiently and comfortably.

3. Horses are highly perceptive and team-minded.

Horses are sensitive to the sounds and smells of their surroundings and can quickly sense danger. In addition, the herd has a strict hierarchy, and the lead horse has a strong appeal.

Review expert: Zhang Niya, associate professor of the Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Huazhong Agricultural University

Produced by: Dongdongmeow