plains zebra
Quick Summary
The plains zebra (E. quagga) is one of three species of mammals in the horse family (Equidae) known for their distinctive black-and-white stripes. They are found in the grasslands of eastern and southern Africa. Plains zebras are large, single-hoofed animals built for speed and migration, typically standing about 120–140 cm (47–55 inches) at the shoulder.1
The unique stripe patterns are created by specialized skin cells called melanocytes that transfer melanin pigment into growing hairs, resulting in black stripes, while hairs without melanin appear white. These stripes may serve multiple purposes, including confusing predators like lions and hyenas, deterring biting insects like horse flies, and potentially aiding in thermoregulation. Each zebra's stripe pattern is unique, similar to a human fingerprint, which may help with individual recognition within herds. Plains zebras are known for their large-scale migrations in search of food and water.123
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perissodactylZebrasThe plains zebra (E. quagga) formerly inhabited a great area of grassland and savanna from the Cape to South Sudan. The southernmost race (E. quagga quagga), which was only partly striped, became extinct in the 19th century. The populations of the other races have been much…
Read MoreThe plains zebra (E. quagga) formerly inhabited a great area of grassland and savanna from the Cape to South Sudan. The southernmost race (E. quagga quagga), which was only partly striped, became extinct in the 19th century. The populations of the other races have been much…
Read More- perissodactylFeeding
Migrations of plains zebras to succulent pastures during the rainy season are a feature of the Serengeti Plains and the Etosha National Park in Africa. The distribution of asses, half-asses, and horses inhabiting arid areas largely follows that of rainfall and pasture.
Read MoreMigrations of plains zebras to succulent pastures during the rainy season are a feature of the Serengeti Plains and the Etosha National Park in Africa. The distribution of asses, half-asses, and horses inhabiting arid areas largely follows that of rainfall and pasture.
Read More - perissodactylReproduction
…of a study group of plains zebra mares bore only one foal in three years.
Read More…of a study group of plains zebra mares bore only one foal in three years.
Read More
