How did horses come to Australia?

Horses were not native to Australia. They were introduced to the continent by European settlers in the 18th century.

Here's a breakdown:

* Arrival with the First Fleet: The first horses arrived in Australia with the First Fleet of British ships in 1788. These horses were brought as a source of transportation and labor for the new colony.

* Spread and Wild Horses: Over time, horses escaped or were released, and they thrived in the Australian environment. They established feral populations, known as brumbies, which roam freely in the wild.

* Impact on the Landscape: The introduction of horses, both domesticated and feral, had a significant impact on the Australian landscape. They grazed on native vegetation, changed the ecosystem, and competed with native animals for resources.

So, horses didn't evolve in Australia. They were brought there by humans and have since become a part of the country's history and environment.