While they don't have a critical function, here are some possible reasons why horses evolved to have forelocks:
* Protection from the sun: The hair on the forelock might help shade the horse's eyes from the sun, particularly in areas with intense sunlight.
* Protection from insects: The forelock could also provide a barrier against biting insects, offering a slight degree of protection from pesky flies and mosquitos.
* Aesthetic purposes: Some believe that the forelock serves as a visual communication tool. It may be a way to signal dominance or attract mates.
* Evolutionary by-product: It's also possible that the forelock is simply a by-product of evolution, offering no specific advantage but not being detrimental either.
It's important to remember that these are just theories, and the exact purpose of the forelock in horses remains somewhat unknown.