Horned gophers were ancient rodents with horns on their heads
The horns were not used for digging or competing for mates
Horns evolved as a defense mechanism against predators
Horned gophers got bigger and their horns got taller over time
Horned gophers became extinct around 5 million years ago
How big were horned gophers?
—Horned gophers were about the size of a small marmot.
What were the horns made of?
—The horns of horned gophers were made of bone.
Did all horned gophers have horns?
—Yes, both male and female horned gophers had horns.
Were the horns used for defense?
—Yes, the horns of horned gophers were likely used for defense against predators.
Why did horned gophers become extinct?
—The extinction of horned gophers may be due to the rise of new predators and changes in their environment.
00:01Introduction to the ancient rodents with horns on their heads
02:56Hypotheses about the purpose of the horns and their evolution
06:29The function of the horns for defense against predators
07:55The extinction of horned gophers
