15 Interesting Facts About Zebras

Introduction:

Zebras have long been considered one of the most interesting creatures in the animal kingdom. While many people recognize the zebra’s black and white stripes, there is much more to these amazing animals than meets the eye! Part of the horse family, zebras are unique for their colorful coats and many other interesting features. Here are 15 interesting facts about the zebra!

Fact 1: Zebras are part of the Equidae family

Zebras are part of the Equidae family, which includes horses and donkeys. They are members of the Equus genus, which also includes wild asses, such as the Somali wild ass and Plains zebra. There are three Zebra species: the Grevy’s zebra, Plains zebra, and Mountain zebra.

Fact 2: Zebras Have Unique Stripes

Most are familiar with the fact that zebras have very distinctive black and white stripes. Each zebra’s stripes are unique, much like a human’s fingerprint! In addition, the stripes act as camouflage and serve to confuse predators, making it more difficult for them to distinguish individual animals in a herd.

Fact 3: Zebras Have Varied Coat Patterns

The “zebra stripes” pattern is not the only coat pattern that zebras can have. While the Grevy’s zebra has thin stripes that extend over the entire body, the Plains and Mountain zebras have unique coats as well. The Plains zebra has broader stripes which are primarily found on the upper body and rump, and the Mountain zebra has the most distinctive pattern of the three species, with vertical stripes on its neck and horizontal stripes on its trunk.

Fact 4: Zebras Communicate Differently than Horses

When it comes to communication, zebra sounds and horse sounds are very different. Zebras will use loud, gruff barks or whistles, rather than the whinnies and neighs used by horses.

Fact 5: Zebras have Never Been Domesticated

Unlike horses, zebras have never been successfully domesticated. This is due to their more unpredictable personalities and unwillingness to be ridden.

Fact 6: Zebras Can Determine the Sex of Other Zebras by their Stripes

Impressively, Zebras can actually determine the sex of other zebras from just their stripes. Female zebras have broader stripes than males, and the number of stripes can also indicate the sex of the animal.

Fact 7: Zebras Are Fast

When it comes to speed, zebras are no slouches! In fact, zebras can reach speeds of up to 40mph when running. This is very impressive, given that most horses can only achieve a maximum speed of around 35mph.

Fact 8: They are Great Swimmers

Contrary to popular belief, zebras can indeed swim! While they may not have the grace and athleticism of seals or dolphins, they can indeed stay afloat and paddle their way across streams and rivers.

Fact 9: Zebras Live in Herds

Unlike horses, which are often found in solitary pairs or occasionally in small groups, zebra herds usually consist of 10-20 individuals. These herds are usually made up of closely related families, with a dominant male at the helm.

Fact 10: Zebras Have Exceptional Eyesight

With eyes like an eagle, zebras have some of the sharpest eyesight in the animal kingdom. This allows them to identify and identify prey from long distances, and better react to danger.

Fact 11: Zebras Are Bent-Knee Runners

Unlike horses, which gallop with their forelegs lifted up, zebras run in a bent-knee style. This style of running allows them to have greater speed and agility on their feet.

Fact 12: Zebras Are Very Social

Zebras are incredibly social animals, and will often engage in activities such as grooming and patting one another. They are also very affectionate towards one another, displaying close bonds between family members.

Fact 13: Zebras Are Mainly Herbivores

Unlike many other animals, zebras are primarily herbivores. They generally munch on grasses, shrubs, and leaves. However, they will occasionally eat fruit or bark in times of drought or food scarcity.

Fact 14: Zebras Have Many Predators

Unfortunately, zebras have quite a few predators looking to make them into a meal. These predators include lions, cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, and even crocodiles!

Fact 15: Zebras are Long-Lived Animals

The lifespan of a zebra is usually around 25-35 years. This is longer than most other hoofed animals, and the oldest recorded zebra in the wild is over 50 years old!

Conclusion

Zebras are incredibly fascinating creatures, and there is so much more to them than initially meets the eye! From the unique nature of their stripes, to their surprisingly long lives, these animals have many interesting features. Hopefully, these 15 facts give you a better understanding and appreciation for these remarkable animals!