Zebras stand out as some of the most recognizable animals in the African wilderness. Their high-contrast coats make them icons of the savanna. However, these striped equids possess a wild streak that separates them from their horse cousins. Furthermore, they use complex behaviors to survive against top predators like lions and hyenas. Explore these fascinating details about the horse in pajamas.
Zebras
Scientists confirmed that zebras are actually black with white stripes. Embryological evidence shows that the animal starts with dark skin in the womb. Later, white stripes emerge as the pigmentation turns off in specific areas.
Furthermore, every single zebra possesses a unique stripe pattern. Just like human fingerprints, no two animals share the exact same design. Therefore, researchers use these distinct patterns to identify individual animals in the wild.
A group of these animals bears the beautiful name of a “dazzle.” Alternatively, people refer to a herd as a “zeal.” This name likely refers to the motion dazzle effect their stripes create when they run together.
Consequently, their kick packs enough power to kill a lion. A threatened zebra kicks backward with tremendous force. Often, this strike breaks the jaw of an attacker, which eventually leads to the predator’s death.
Humans failed to domesticate zebras throughout history. Unlike horses, these animals possess a strong ducking reflex and a nasty bite. Thus, colonial settlers gave up on trying to ride them or use them for farm work.
Interestingly, the stripes may act as a natural bug repellent. Recent studies suggest that the monochrome pattern confuses biting flies. As a result, the flies struggle to land on the striped surface, saving the animal from disease.
They can sleep while standing up. Locking joints in their legs allow them to doze off without falling over. However, they must lie down completely to achieve deep REM sleep.
Zebras run in a zig-zag pattern when chased. Instead of running in a straight line, they dart back and forth to confuse predators. This tactic makes it difficult for a lion to gauge the distance for a final leap.
Grevy’s zebras can go for days without water. This specific species lives in semi-arid regions of Kenya and Ethiopia. Remarkaby, they can survive up to five days without a drink if necessary.
They communicate with facial expressions and loud braying. To signal a greeting, they pull their ears back and open their mouths. Additionally, they make a sound that resembles a barking dog or a donkey rather than a horse whinny.
The plains zebra participates in the Great Migration. Along with millions of wildebeest, they travel hundreds of miles across the Serengeti. They eat the taller, tougher grass first, which prepares the ground for the wildebeest behind them.
Amazingly, their teeth keep growing for their entire lives. Because they graze on tough, gritty grass, their teeth wear down constantly. Therefore, the teeth must grow continuously to prevent the animal from starving.
They groom each other to strengthen social bonds. Frequently, two animals stand head-to-tail and nibble on each other’s necks. This behavior removes parasites and reduces stress within the herd.
Zebras have excellent night vision. Their eyes sit on the sides of their heads, which gives them a wide field of view. Moreover, owl-like adaptations allow them to see clearly even when the moon provides little light.
Finally, they can rotate their ears in almost any direction. This ability helps them pinpoint sounds from great distances. Consequently, they often hear a predator approaching long before they see it.
