The Striped Beauty of the Savanna: The Zebra

The zebra is one of nature’s most iconic and visually striking animals, with its bold black-and-white striped coat capturing the imagination of people worldwide. These social equids, native to Africa, thrive in a range of habitats, from grassy savannas to mountainous regions. Each zebra’s stripe pattern is unique, acting much like a fingerprint, which may help individuals recognize each other in a herd.

The purpose of their stripes has intrigued scientists for decades, with theories ranging from camouflage to protection against biting flies and even body temperature regulation. Zebras are herbivores, grazing primarily on grasses, but their tough digestive systems allow them to consume less nutritious vegetation during dry seasons.

Zebras are known for their agility and endurance. They can run at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, often zigzagging to evade predators. Their strong social bonds and ability to form herds with other animals, like wildebeests, offer additional protection against threats in the wild. Despite their resilience, zebras face challenges such as habitat loss and hunting, making conservation efforts essential for their survival.