Equus Yuni

Equus yuni, or referred to as the Yunken Horse or simply Yun-Horse is a extinct species of horse that was native to the Northeastern regions of Eldham. Dating back to the Melwendian period to the early Regolithic period, the species' reign is estimated to have lasted between 5.3 to 1.8 million years ago. The species is only known by a single complete holotype skeleton and a dozen smaller skeletal remains found out in the flat lands of Nathria, Yunria (now Zathria). 
== Description ==
Standing at an estimated height of nearly 4 feet (1.32 meters) an adult Equus yuni is said to have weighed around 300 kilograms (660 lb). Notably shorter than its modern relatives, E. yuni possessed a stocky, compact build. The skull of E. yuni is shorter than modern equids, with the snout and nasal bone, adult specimens estimated to have a length of 20''. This would mean E. yuni had broad heads in life, their heads appearing proportionately larger than the rest of their bodies. The appearance, coloration and patterns on the hides and coats of E. yuni are unknown  due to a lack of soft tissue on known specimens. 
== Ecology ==
Equus yuni was herbivorous; given the flora present in the northeastern regions of Eldham at the time, this diet would consist mainly of grasses and other low-growing plant life, a grazing lifestyle would have had to be in place. E. yuni inhabited those plains and flatlands of the northeast sharing their environment with creatures like the Cavedigger Sloth (Gigantofossor paneldhami) and Brailaheim Mammoth (Mammuthus braililus).
It is theorized that E. yuni traveled in herds, albeit ones smaller than those of its relatives with regards to the harsh environment. it is believed that these herds, like their modern day counterparts, would be driven by a single adult stallion with the rest of the herd consisting of mares and foals. 
These equids played the role of grazers, clearing the way for new plant life to flourish, but also served as prey to indigenous predators, most commonly wolves. E. yuni is believed to have been prey to wolves, as their smaller size made them easier prey compared to other equids and other mammals in their environment. 
== Extinction ==
The reason for their extinction is not clear. It is possible they were overhunted by early tribes located in the area and suffered from competition with larger herbivores.
Category:Animals
Category:Fauna
Category:W.I.P.
Category:Traveler's Era