In this podcast episode, Chris and Angie talk about the intriguing Asiatic Wild Asses, relating to the endangered equids species residing from Persia to Mongolia. They recollect stories about their late brother Shawn Mortensen’s love for the animals, his passion for photography, and his travels in Mongolia.

The discussion covers the fascinating aspects of the species concerning their size, wild habitats, crucial role in the ecosystem, and impressive resilience. Additionally, they delve into the species' environmental adaptations like enhanced hearing due to their big ears, crucial to surviving hot desert climates. The hosts focus on the population decrease from the 1800s, existing pockets in Asia, and the existing conservation work in China and Mongolia, which rekindles hope for this threatened species.

Podcast Timeline

00:55 Introduction to the Creatures Podcast

01:11 Remembering Sean Mortenson: An Inspiration

02:10 The Fascinating Story of the Asiatic Wild Ass

04:14 The Onager: A Beautiful and Endangered Equid

06:09 The Importance of Patreon Support for Conservation Efforts

14:34 The Role of the Asiatic Wild Ass in the Ecosystem

19:03 Conservation Efforts in Mongolia and China

23:00 The Persian Onager: A Critically Endangered Subspecies

28:04 The Evolution of Equids

35:50 Introduction to the Largest Equid

36:15 Discussion on Draft Horses

37:30 Exploring the Shire Horse

37:41 Insights into Equine Science

38:06 Understanding Horse Size and Weight

38:06 The Gentle Giants: Draft Horses

38:12 The Weight of the Largest Equid

38:47 Life Expectancy of Equids

39:48 Speed and Adaptability of Asiatic Wild Asses

41:27 The Role of Ears in Heat Dissipation

44:00 Survival Adaptations of Equids

44:43 Feeding Behavior of Equids

48:03 Communication and Social Behavior of Equids

51:56 Reproduction in Equids

57:33 Conservation Efforts for Asiatic Wild Asses

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