Plains zebra species. Stripes As unique As fingerprints.

Plains zebra species. The local natives named the animal in imitation of its guttural call, and it would later be enshrined in the Grevy’s zebra were the first of the zebra species to evolve after asses, as well as being the largest equid species. In fact, the farther south on the African plains you travel, the farther apart the stripes on zebras get! Jan 31, 2025 · Anything but plain. There are three species of zebra found in the wild including the plains zebra, the Grevy’s zebra and the mountain zebra. Distribution Found from central Mozambique to northern Zimbabwe. The other species is the mountain zebra (Equus zebra) which is also slightly bigger than the plains zebra with a distinctive dewlap which is usually absent in other species. An average adult female weighs 600 to 750 pounds. See full list on wildlifeinformer. Jan 21, 2021 · Animals with abnormal coat patterns may be inbred, “dramatic evidence” of how habitat fragmentation can harm wildlife, a new study says. A highly social species, the plains zebra typically lives in groups called harems, where females are led by a single stallion. The plains zebra remains common in game reserves, but is threatened by human activities such as hunting Zebras (US: / ˈziːbrəz /, UK: / ˈzɛbrəz, ˈziː -/) [2] (subgenus Hippotigris) are African equines with distinctive black-and-white striped coats. As the names suggest they occur in vastly differing habitats, although they are known to occur together in places where plains and mountains overlap. Nov 6, 2024 · The plains zebra is the most common species, recognized for its wide-ranging habitat across southern and eastern Africa. Sep 14, 2024 · Zebras are medium-sized equids with muscular bodies and long legs designed for swift running. The plains zebra, found in the Kruger National Park, typically inhabit treeless grassland and woodland areas. Origin of the Name Named after Frederick Species in Africa Plains Zebra (Equus quagga): The most common species, found in a variety of habitats from savannas to woodlands. The Plains Zebra, on exhibit at The Maryland Zoo, is the most common and geographically widespread. A zebra foal stands within 12 minutes of birth, walks well by 35 minutes, and runs within an hour. 1. Discover unique characteristics, behaviors, and habitats of various zebra species and subspecies, from the common Plains Zebra to the endangered Grevy's Zebra. Plains zebras and Mountain zebras have evolved to thrive in distinctly different African environments. It can weigh up to 350 kg, males being slightly bigger than females. Happy International Zebra Day! Celebrate the beauty of zebras on International Zebra Day! These striking animals, known for their unique black and white patterns, are mostly found in the African savannah, stretching from Kenya to South Africa. Range & habitat Grévy’s, plains and mountain zebras inhabit distinctly different habitats with only some overlapping of range here and there. There are three species of Zebra including the Plains Zebra (also referred to as the common Zebra), Grevy’s Zebra and the Mountain Zebra. The Grevy's zebra lives in the grassy areas of Ethiopia and the northern regions of Kenya. This species is renowned for its striking black and white stripes and is the most common and geographically widespread species. Zebras are known for having many black and white stripes. The Plains zebra (Equus quagga) is the most widespread and common zebra species, found across much of eastern and southern Africa. He compared proportions ingested to their availability in the sward and found that there was significant selection and rejection of grass species. Zebras in the greater Serengeti-Mara ecosystem migrate primarily in response to seasonal rains. During the wet season, family groups (usually a stallion plus two or three mares and their ofspring Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra): Found in southern Africa, including Namibia and South Africa, mountain zebras prefer arid, rocky, and mountainous terrain. The Grevy’s zebra is listed as critically endangered by the IUCN. Six subspecies have been recognised including the extinct quagga which was thought to be a separate species. The conservation status of zebras varies by species. Aug 18, 2020 · The plains zebra is the most common of the three species. While the Plains zebra remains the most numerous of all zebra species, its apparent abundance masks concerning population trends. The Grévy's zebra is actually one of the largest of the zebras. The Plains Zebra, also known as the Common Zebra, is the most widespread and abundant of the three species of zebras, the other two being the Mountain Zebra and Grevy’s Zebra. The smallest species, the mountain zebra, still weighs up to 360kg and it native to South Africa, Namibia, and Angola. Mountain zebras, however, live in the rugged mountains of South Africa and Namibia. Jun 18, 2024 · 2. The plains zebra (Equus quagga) is a species of equid, a relative of the horses. Plains Zebras are widely distributed across eastern and southern Africa, from the The Plains Zebra: Characteristics and Habitat The Plains zebra (Equus quagga) is the most widespread species, found across the grasslands and savannas of eastern and southern Africa. There are three living species: the Grévy's zebra (<i>Equus grevyi</i>), plains zebra (<i>E. Grévy’s zebras live mostly in northern Kenya, in Acacia bushland, and on barren plains. Superficially, Grévy's zebra's physical features can help to identify it The Plains Zebra, the most common species, prefers savannas and grassland plains, which are abundant in countries like Kenya and Tanzania. Within the assessment region, the natural range of the Plains Zebra is found in the eastern Lowveld and the KwaZulu-Natal lowlands, and into the Northern Cape. One subspecies, the Quagga E. In many ways, this is a very mule-oriented zebra as it has a long and narrow head. These herbivores belong to the Equidae family and are the smallest of the three zebra species, with an Jan 31, 2024 · — Plains Zebra First, let’s get acquainted with the Plains zebra (Equus quagga). The Plains zebra (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchellii) is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. They are predominantly grazers and have developed a preference for red grass and buffelgrass species. Standing between 47 to 55 inches tall, these zebras boast a distinctive pattern of wide, spaced stripes that contribute to their iconic appearance. Check them out in Others believe the stripes protect against insects that recognize only large areas of a single fur color, or that they act as a natural sunscreen. Plains zebras are the most common species. There are three main species of zebra, Grevy's Zebra, the Plains Zebra, and the Mountain Zebra. It is one of three zebra species, with the other two being the mountain zebra (Equus zebra) and the endangered Zebra Zebras are mammals of the family Equidae. Known for its wide, spaced stripes, the plains zebra is found in various regions, including grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands. This subspecies represents the zebra form of the Serengeti - Mara ecosystem and others across central Africa. The Plains zebra is relatively abundant and not considered endangered. The zebra is a type of animal best known for its characteristic black and white stripes. 3. Zebra Facts Overview All zebra species reside in Africa, with the Grevy’s zebra found in Eastern Africa, Plains zebra in Eastern and Southern Africa, and the Mountain zebra seen in southwestern Africa. Plains zebra (Equus quagga), also known as the common zebra, is the most common species of zebra. Overview “Where I live” There are four species of zebra: Plains, Grevy’s, Cape Mountain, and Hartmann’s Mountain. Grevy’s Zebras have the lowest population at just 1,956 mature individuals, reported by the IUCN in their 2016 review. The Plains zebra (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchellii), also known as the common zebra or Burchell's zebra, is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. It is also known as the Common Zebra or Burchell’s Zebra. Plains zebra (Equus quagga). Aug 3, 2025 · Plains zebra. Its abundant nature has led to it featuring in the culture of African countries, including appearing Grant's zebra (Equus quagga boehmi) is the smallest of the seven subspecies of the plains zebra. Zebras are African horses. It is closely related to the horse and the donkey, but unlike its cousins, is not well-suited to domestication, being capricious and sometimes aggressive. Jun 28, 2023 · Back in October 2022, we looked at the diversity and evolution of plains zebras , a group that includes the Quagga. Understanding their unique traits and challenges highlights the importance of protecting these iconic animals. The Plains zebra, the most common and widespread species, features broad stripes that often have shadow stripes between them. However, their populations are declining, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature lists the plains zebra as "near threatened. 2. It has stripes that go under its belly and has ‘shadow stripes’ (paler, narrower stripes) between its dark stripes. Their beautiful body stripes, patterned with alternating stripes of black and Jun 5, 2019 · With its bold black and white stripes, the plains zebra is one of the most distinctive animals of the African savanna. The zebra’s stripes arise from melanocytes (specialized skin cells) that selectively determine the pigmentation of the animal’s fur. Hartmann’s zebra live in small breeding groups of four to five animals comprising one stallion with his mares and foals. Plains and Mountain zebra foals are protected by their mother as well as the head stallion and the other mares in their group. There is also one population in the Cape region. Plains Zebra overview characteristics geography timeline information & media contact There are three species of zebras: the Plains zebra, the Grevy’s zebra, and the Mountain zebra. The Plains Zebra, also called ‘Common Zebra’, ‘Burchell’s Zebra’, and ‘Painted Zebra’, is an ungulate and equine from Africa that is native to over 15 African countries. They comprise six subspecies, such as the Burchell’s, Grant’s, Selous’, maneless, Chapman’s, and Crawshay’s zebra. Plains zebras can weigh up to 385kg and are found in southern Ethiopia, South Sudan, and northern South Africa. Aug 8, 2025 · The uniqueness extends to all three zebra species: the plains zebra, mountain zebra, and Grevy’s zebra, though each species has characteristic general patterns that help distinguish them from one another. zebra</i>). There are three living species: Grévy's zebra (Equus grevyi), the plains zebra (E. The plains zebra is the most common of the three species today, although its numbers may be dwindling as well. An adult male zebra, or stallion, is about five feet long; females, or mares, are slightly smaller. Burchell’s zebra prefers arid savannah with access to water, while Hartmann’s is found in central and southern Namibia in the rugged terrain of the mountain escarpment and adjacent flats. There are multiple subspecies of Species There are three different species: the Grevy's zebra, the mountain zebra and the plains zebra. " May 18, 2025 · Explore the zebra scientific name, meaning, pronunciation, genus, classification, zoological details, and types. Grevy’s Zebra (Equus grevyi): The largest and most endangered species, located in Northern Kenya and Tanzania is home to several zebra species, each with its own distinctive features and habitats – the Plains Zebra, Mountain Zebra, and Grevy’s Zebra. #3 Plains Zebra: The Common Wanderer Plains zebras are the most prevalent species, ranging from Ethiopia to South Africa. 5m tail. Plains zebras are distinguished from the other species by broad stripes that extend around the belly and down to the hoof. All three species are found in Eastern and Southern Africa in a variety of savannahs, shrublands, woodlands, grasslands, and mountainous regions. The common plains zebra is about 1. These two species overlap in the southern range of Grevy’s zebra and the northern range of plains zebra. More recent research supports variations in zebra populations being Types of Zebras There are three primary species of zebras: 1. At first it might seem like a zebra is a zebra, but there are three different species: plains, mountain, and Grevy’s zebras. 3 m at the shoulder with a body ranging from 2–2. Each species varies slightly in size, habitat preference, and striping pattern, but all share similar grazing habits and social structures. 2009) Bontequagga (Groves 1974) Etymology of zebra The Abyssinian name for the animal (Brown 1956) Scientific name Etymology Genus Equus from Latin equinus meaning "horse" (Gove 1993) Subgenus 3 Species of zebras occur in different part of Africa but mostly seen in Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Nambilia, Angola and Zimbabwe The plains zebra (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchellii), also known as the common zebra, is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. Their stripes vary in size and pattern, depending on the species. Feb 6, 2024 · The Plains Zebra is the most numerous and the smallest of the species, covering a wide range across the African continent. Feb 20, 2025 · What are the different species of zebras? There are three main species: Plains Zebra (Equus quagga) – The most common, found in grasslands. Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra): These zebras are native to the rugged terrains of Namibia Sep 4, 2024 · Migration Description More than 200,000 zebras migrate through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, constituting Africa’s largest zebra migration, according to the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute. The stripes of each individual zebra are uniquely patterned Grévy's zebra (Equus grevyi), also known commonly as the imperial zebra, is the largest living species of wild equid and the most threatened of the three species of zebras, the other two being the plains zebra and the mountain zebra. Mountain zebra have a narrow geographic range in the moutain ranges and arid zones of southern Angoloa and northern Namibia. The plains zebra (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchellii) is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. Its closest living relative is Grevy’s zebra (Equusgrevyi), which can hybridize with the plains zebra. Oct 14, 2024 · There are three main species: Plains zebra, Grevy’s zebra, and Mountain zebra. The Grant’s zebra (Equus burchelli boehmi), pictured left, is the most common of the plains zebra subspecies. The plains zebra (Equus quagga) is the most common and widespread among the zebras. The plains zebra, also known as the common zebra, is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. Feb 7, 2025 · The plains zebra population is the most numerous with up to 250,000 animals, but it has experienced a 25%declinesince 1992 and is now listed as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species. Stripes As unique As fingerprints Stripes in the Spotlight: What Makes a Plains Zebra Unique? The Plains Zebra is the most widespread and abundant of the three main zebra species, the others being the Grevy’s Zebra (Equus grevyi) and the Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra). Grevy’s zebra faces significant threats and is classified as endangered due to habitat loss and poaching. It has broader stripes and some variations, such as the Burchell’s and Grant’s zebra. Also known as the common zebra or the Burchell's zebra, it ranges from southern Sudan and southern Ethiopia to southern Angola, northern Namibia, and northern South Plains zebras (Equus quagga) are a species of zebra native to the grasslands and savannas of eastern and southern Africa. Six or seven subspecies have been recognised, including the extinct quagga which was thought to be a separate species. Plains Zebra (Equus quagga) Description: The most common and widespread zebra species. quagga</i>), and the mountain zebra (<i>E. This species, known for its iconic broad black and white It was a Zebra, and as modern DNA analysis has shown, not a seperate zebra species either, but one of several subspecies (local forms) of the Plains Zebra, of which most are still living. Here, we carry on with the zebra series, this time looking at Grevy’s zebra…. Its range is fragmented, but spans much of southern and eastern Africa south of the Sahara. Image by Openverse. Zebras share the genus Equus with horses and asses, the three groups being the only living members of the family Zebras exhibit several species, including the plains zebra (Equus quagga), mountain zebra (Equus zebra), and Grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi). q. Mountain Zebra (Equus The Plains Zebra is the most common species of zebra and is listed as 'Least Concern' on the IUCN Red List (a list of endangered animals). They are a vital part of the ecosystem, grazing on grass and helping to maintain environmental equilibrium. Small zebra groups consisting of a stallion and several mares and foals may coalesce into large herds but retain their identity. The two species diverged between three and four million years ago. On this page you’ll find plains zebra facts, pictures and in-depth information… Therefore, the Plains Zebra is categorised on the IUCN Red List as Near Threatened. Explore the world of zebras with 12 captivating facts covering their unique stripes, various species, behaviors, and habitats. Sep 5, 2024 · Known as The Global Initiative for Ungulate Migration (GIUM), these maps showcase the movements of various species, including Tibetan antelope, reindeer, guanaco, plains zebra, and wildebeest. Grevy’s Zebra (Equus grevyi) – The largest species, found in arid regions. May 27, 2024 · The most numerous zebra species is the Plains zebra, known as Equus quagga. The Plains zebra is found throughout southeastern Africa, with the highest population densities in the Serengeti-Mara plains of Kenya and Tanzania. The plains zebra, also known as the common zebra, is the most abundant of three species of zebra. Between these three species, there are a total of seven Oct 12, 2022 · The taxonomic history of plains zebra is phenomenally complicated and numerous forms – initially proposed as species or subspecies – were named in the late 1800s and early 1900s. However, they are known to browse, especially when food supplies are low in a drought-stricken region. Across its range are six plains zebra subspecies, showing increased body size and reduced stripes towards the south. zebra), of dry upland plains in Namibia and western South Africa, has a gridlike pattern on the rump. Oct 13, 2024 · Types of Zebras There are three main species of zebras, each with distinct characteristics and habitats: Plains Zebra (Equus quagga): The most common species, found in Eastern and Southern Africa. They are characterized by their distinctive black and white striped coats, which serve as a form of camouflage and individual identification. There are two species of Zebra in Southern Africa, the Plains or Burchell's Zebra and the Mountain Zebra. Plains zebra is the common name for the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra, Equus quagga, characterized by vertical stripes on the forepart of the body, which tend towards the horizontal on the hindquarters. They are medium-sized members of the equid family Plains Zebra There are three species of Zebra - Plains, Mountain and Grevy's - all are black (or dark brown) and white striped small horses native to Africa, but the basic stripe pattern and other features vary. May 7, 2024 · Common names Numerous common names Plains, painted, or common zebra (Hack and Lorenzen 2008) Burchell's zebra (see synonymous names below) Named for the major explorer and naturalist (Beolens et al. The range of these zebras extends from the south of Ethiopia to as far south as eastern South Africa, as well as in Botswana and eastwards through East Africa. Grevy’s zebra foals have only their mother as a regular protector since, as noted above, Grevy’s zebra groups often disband after a few months. It is the commonest and most widespread of the three zebra species. Recognizable by its striking black and white stripes, this species is Africa’s most widespread and successful grazer, thriving in a variety of habitats and climate zones across the continent. Aug 6, 2025 · Mountain zebra. Their most iconic feature, the stripes, vary among species and individuals: Plains Zebra: Wider stripes, more evenly spaced. Zebras share the genus <i>Equus</i> with horses and asses, the three groups being the only living members of the Jun 4, 2021 · Typically, zebras are classified as Least Concern, although there are significant variances among the three species and subspecies, some of which are incredibly low, and one type, the Grevy’s zebra, is classified as Endangered. Sep 5, 2025 · Zebra, any of three species of strikingly black-and-white striped mammals of the horse family Equidae (genus Equus). It can reach up to 1. Six or seven subspecies have been recognised, including the quagga which was thought to be a separate species. Stripes are Nature’s Barcodes Just like human fingerprints, no two zebras have the same stripe pattern. It is an expanding online resource with plans to incorporate additional species in the future. The quagga (/ ˈkwɑːxɑː / or / ˈkwæɡə /) [2][3] (Equus quagga quagga) is an extinct subspecies of the plains zebra that was endemic to South Africa until it was hunted to extinction in the late 19th century. 2 ft). Plains zebras are highly social, often forming large herds that migrate in search of fresh grazing areas. Learn about zebra hybrids, their incredible migratory journeys, and the complex relationship between zebras and humans. This species is threatened by hunting for food and skins across much of its range, especially outside protected areas. More recent research supports variations in zebra May 13, 2013 · The plains zebra, by far the most common and geographically widespread of the three, is featured in the film Great Zebra Exodus. Description Selous’ Zebra is a highly debated subspecies, often considered the same as a Chapman’s Zebra. It was long thought to be a distinct species, but mtDNA studies have supported it being a subspecies of plains zebra. Plains zebras, also known as common zebras or Burchell’s zebra, are the most numerous species of zebra, with six subspecies. Three main species—Plains, Grevy’s, and Mountain zebras—each exhibit unique characteristics The two species of zebra that are currently endangered are the Grevy's zebra and the mountain zebra. Dec 13, 2019 · Most zebra species live in arid and semi-arid plains and savannas of Africa: Plains and Grevy's zebras have different regions but overlap during migrations. 6-4. Plains zebras (Equus quagga), also known as common zebras, are a species of zebra native to the grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands of eastern and southern Africa. The Plains zebra has differentiated into several subspecies, two of which are now extinct. Their range extends from South Sudan and southern Ethiopia through East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda) down to southern Sep 30, 2021 · The species with the largest population is the plains zebra, with up to 250,000 wild individuals across their range. There Are 3 Species of Zebra in the Wild Found throughout different regions of Africa, the three living species of zebra are the plains zebra, mountain zebra, and Grévy’s zebra. The Jan 31, 2025 · The plains zebra is the most common and widespread zebra species, ranging from South Africa to Ethiopia (1). There are three living species of Zebra: the plains zebra (Equus quagga), the grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi), and the mountain zebra (Equus zebra). 4 m (3. They are characterized by their distinctive black and white striped coats, which are unique to each individual. Subspecies: Includes the extinct quagga, which was once native to South Africa. Know the biological name of a zebra today. Discover the world of zebras! Learn about their species, diet, habitat, and conservation status. Weights reach 175-385 kg (386-840 lb), with males often being 10 % heavier than females. Grévy’s Zebra (Equus grevyi): The largest and most endangered species, with narrow stripes and a white belly, primarily found in semi-arid regions . Several zebra species face serious threats from habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. In many respects, it is more akin to the asses (Asinus), while the other zebras are more closely related to the horses (Equus). May 7, 2024 · Species fact summary, fact sheet table of contents, how to cite The plains zebra and the two species of mountain zebras belong to Hippotigris, but the Grevy's zebra is the sole species of Dolichohippus. Since it is The plains zebra (Equus quagga), also known as the common zebra, is the most successful and geographically-widespread species of zebra, and the most populous wild perissodactyl (including all horses, rhinos, and tapirs). Plains Zebra (Equus quagga): The most widespread zebra species, found in eastern and southern Africa, inhabiting savannas and grasslands. 5 m (6. Plains zebra are the most abundant species of zebra, being found in the eastern half of Africa. The small mountain zebra (E. Discover the role these fascinating creatures play in popular culture, folklore, and conservation efforts. Habitat: Found in savannas, grasslands, and wooded areas across eastern and southern Africa. They are recognized for their iconic black and white striped patterns and are integral to the African savanna’s ecosystem. Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra): Adapted to mountainous regions, with a more robust body and a dewlap under the neck. The Grant’s zebra is the best studied of the plains zebra and much of what we know of the behaviour and biology of the species comes from work done with this subspecies in the wild and in Zebra Profile Zebras (subgenus Hippotigris) are well-known for their distinctive stripes. Plains Zebra: Plains zebras are Fascinating Facts About Plains Zebra have very good hearing and eyesight, which helps them stay clear of predators lions, hyenas, cheetahs. They belong to the family Equidae, which also includes horses and donkeys. They live in small family groups consisting of a male (stallion), several females, and their young. Their range reaches as far north as southern Ethiopia and Sudan, as far west as Namibia, and as far south as the northern regions of South Africa. Learn about zebra anatomy, diet, habitat, and social structure. com Explore the diverse world of zebras in this comprehensive guide. Renowned for their striking black and white stripes, each individual has a unique pattern that serves both to deter predators and to assist in social bonding within their herds. 1-1. In certain regions of Kenya, the plains zebras and Grevy's zebras coexist. They are May 3, 2025 · The plains zebra (Equus quagga) is one of the world's most recognizable animals, but there's one member of this species that no one has laid eyes on in over a century. Each individual boasts a unique set of stripes, akin to human fingerprints, that serve as Oct 17, 2014 · Some experts say that there are three species of zebras — Grevy's zebra, plains zebra and mountain zebra — and that Hartmann's zebra is a subspecies of mountain zebra. It has rather thin and narrow DESCRIPTION Zebras are African equines, distinguished by their iconic black and white stripes. They can be seen in herds of over 10,000 when the Grant’s Zebra (Plains Zebra subspecies) migrates across the Serengeti in the rainy season. The species includes the Cape mountain zebra and Hartmann’s mountain zebra. Why do zebras have stripes? The plains zebra (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchellii) is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. President Grevy was given a zebra as a gift in 1882 by the king of Abyssinia (now Ethiopia). Though plains zebras are the least threatened of the Zebras, the iconic striped equines of Africa, are facing threats from habitat loss and poaching. There are three species of zebra: the plains zebra, the mountain zebra, and Grevy's zebra. It is the most widespread zebra species, and is found across southern and eastern Africa, though its range today is fragmented. Mountain zebras are closely related to the African wild ass. Grevy's zebra is taller than the plains zebra, and has thinner stripes and longer ears — but it is an endangered zebra species. Larger than the mountain zebra, and smaller than the Grevy’s, this ungulate is horse-like but has a mane of short, erect hair, a tail with a tuft at the tip, and bears recognizable vertical stripes. Named after French president Jules Grévy, it is found in parts of Kenya and Ethiopia. Overview of Zebra Species When discussing zebra species, we primarily recognize three types, each with its own distinctive features and habitats. Zebra stripes come in different patterns, unique to each individual. Jan 31, 2025 · Wild Zebra types Grevy’s Zebra: The Grevy’s zebra, found in northern Kenya and parts of Ethiopia, is the largest and most endangered zebra species. There’s More to the Story All three species of zebra – the plains zebra, Grevy’s zebra, and mountain zebra – are native to Africa. Mountain Zebra: Narrower stripes, especially on the neck and rump. Conservation Concerns Zebra – a horse with stripes? Zebras are hoofed mammals that are native to Africa. The plains zebra (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchellii) is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. Plains Zebras roam Africa’s grasslands and venture into woodland and marshy areas as well. Dig into their diet and other intriguing aspects that make these black-and-white striped creatures a fascinating study. Learn how AWF conserves zebras. Grevy's Zebra The Grevy's zebra is the largest zebra. However, some regional populations, like that in Tanzania, have sharply declined. This means that the species is doing well, it is widespread, and has good-sized populations. Zebras share the genus Equus with horses and asses, the three groups being the only living members of the family Equidae. All zebras are dark-skinned animals. 6 m long with a 0. There is also the more common plains zebra. quagga of South Africa, became extinct in 1883 due to overhunting and competition with livestock. Zebras How to recognise a zebra Zebras are part of the horse family. Zebras are known as "pioneer grazers," meaning they are less picky but also less Established in 1964, the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species has evolved to become the world’s most comprehensive information source on the global conservation status of animal, fungi and plant species. The population of this social species is stable. Plains zebras and Grevy's zebras, on the other hand, are related to the Asian donkey. Hunting Opportunities Primarily hunted in western Mozambique. May 7, 2024 · Species fact summary, fact sheet table of contents, how to cite Aug 18, 2020 · The plains zebra is the most common of the three species. They are in the same genus as the common horse, Equus caballus, and donkeys. More recent research supports variations in zebra populations being Aug 3, 2025 · Each species has evolved different stripe patterns and physical characteristics that reflect their adaptation to specific habitats. The quagga (E. From the lush tropical savannas to the more temperate grasslands, the Plains zebra has carved out a niche that spans diverse environments. Plains Zebra are selective grazers, and in the Serengeti Grogan's (1973) research indicated that Pennisetum mezianum was a preferred species. The Mountain Zebra, as its name suggests, is adapted to mountainous and rocky terrain and is typically found in Southwestern Africa, including Namibia and South Africa. It is characterised by broader stripes that are less defined than those of What is a zebra’s scientific name? Each species of zebra has a different scientific name: Grevy’s zebra: Equus grevyi Mountain zebra: Equus zebra Plains zebra: Equus quagga Grevy’s zebra is named after Jules Grevy, a former president of France. Each species has unique stripes. Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra) – Inhabits rocky, mountainous areas. Scientific Name Equus Quagga Weight The plains zebra is recognizable by its bold, horizontal stripes and compact body, making it the most common of the three zebra species, which include the mountain zebra and Grevy’s zebra. What is a plains zebra? The most common and widespread of its species, the plains zebra even appears on the coat of arms of Botswana. zebra). It has been severely impacted by human activities, including habitat loss and poaching. Of the three zebra species—Grévy's zebra, plains zebra and mountain zebra—the Grévy's zebra is the most endangered, with more Jan 31, 2025 · Types of Zebras There are three main species of zebras, each with distinct features and habitats: Plains Zebra (Equus quagga): The most common zebra species, found across southern and eastern Africa. What is a zebra’s scientific name? Each species of zebra has a different scientific name: Grevy’s zebra: Equus grevyi Mountain zebra: Equus zebra Plains zebra: Equus quagga Grevy’s zebra is named after Jules Grevy, a former president of France. A zebra foal is brown and white instead of black and white at birth. There are three species of zebras: the plains zebra / common zebra (Equus quagga), the mountain zebra (Equus zebra), and the Grévy’s zebra / imperial zebra (Equus grevyi). Within these three species are multiple subspecies including six subspecies of plains zebra and two subspecies of mountain zebra. 2) The most common species is the plains zebra, which roams grasslands and woodland of eastern and southern Africa. Size and Weight: Zebras vary in size depending on the species. It ranges from the south of Ethiopia through East Africa to as far south as Botswana and eastern South Africa. Learn more zebra facts at Animal Fact Guide! Feb 6, 2024 · The plains zebra, also known as the common zebra is the most common and widespread species of zebra. It is characterized by its black and white stripes, which are often seen in a bold pattern. quagga), was a subspecies of plains zebra that once roamed the temperate grasslands of South Africa. It is the most recognizable grazing animal on the African continent. The other two species include the Grévy’s zebra (Equus grevyi), and the mountain zebra (Equus zebra). Its five remaining subspecies (a sixth recently became extinct) are not individually IUCN Red List assessed. It has narrow, closely spaced stripes and a white belly. A more recent study suggested that it was the southernmost Zebras (US: / ˈziːbrəz /, UK: / ˈzɛbrəz, ˈziː -/) [2] (subgenus Hippotigris) are African equines with distinctive black-and-white striped coats. 6-8. Over the past three decades, Plains zebra numbers have declined by approximately 25%, prompting the IUCN to elevate its status from Least Concern to Near Threatened in 2016. The three species differ in size, weight, stripes and color. The Plains Zebra, scientifically known as Equus quagga, is the most widespread species of zebra and one of Africa’s most iconic animals. Zebras share the genus Equus with horses and asses, the three groups being the only living members of the family Feb 13, 2012 · Sometimes overlapping, the two species favour different habitats. The plains zebra is the most common and widespread species Learn about Grevy's zebra, the largest and most endangered zebra species, its habitat, behavior, and ongoing conservation efforts to protect it. Understanding these magnificent animals and the challenges they face is the first step toward ensuring future generations can marvel at their distinctive black-and-white patterns in the wild. May 25, 2017 · The plains zebra (Equus quagga) is the most common and widespread of zebra species. Grévy’s Zebra: Narrow, closely spaced stripes, especially prominent on the head and flanks. Learn how different zebra species adapt and thrive in the wild. The list of species of Hippotigris subgenus<br><p><b>Zebras</b> are African equines with distinctive black-and-white striped coats. The species is also now extinct in Burundi and Lesotho, and there remains a question over their presence in Angola. There are also populations in Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, and Malawi. Different zebra species have different types of stripes, from narrow to wide. They are members of the group Equus, which contains horses and asses. The plains zebra is by far the most numerous zebra species, with, according to Defenders of Wildlife, possibly 750,000 left in the wild - but decreasing. Plains Zebra Naples zoo houses 2 subspecies- grants and demara Scientific Name Equus burchellii (Grant's Zebra) or Equus quagga (Damara) Range Grasslands of eastern and southern Africa Habitats Grasslands What do they eat? Herbivore; grass, leaves Status Near Threatened Conservation Threats Overhunting, habitat loss Fun Facts There are 3 species of zebra: Grevy’s, Plains, and Mountain zebra The plains zebra (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchellii) is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. Easily recognized by its striking black-and-white striped coat, this zebra species plays a crucial role in African ecosystems, particularly in grasslands and savannas where they are commonly found. What sets Equus quagga apart is its relatively wide stripe pattern, stocky build, and social disposition. Jan 29, 2025 · The plains zebra is the most numerous, with an estimated population of up to 250,000 individuals, though it has seen a 25 per cent decline since 1992 and is now listed as “Near Threatened” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Endangered Species. Jun 15, 2025 · Striped wonders of the African plains are in trouble. The plains The Plains Zebra, scientifically known as Equus quagga, is one of the most recognizable and iconic animals on the African savanna. Dec 16, 2024 · Conclusion: Experience the Magic of Kenya’s Zebras Kenya is home to two incredible zebra species—the Plains zebra and the endangered Grevy’s zebra—each playing a vital role in its ecosystems. quagga), and the mountain zebra (E. 8 ft) at its shoulder and a length of 2-2. It has faint shadow stripes, sometimes absent, and a distinctive brown nostril patch, unlike other Plains Zebras. The most common is the Plains Zebra shown here, with wider white stripes than the others and which has several subspecies. 1) Our planet is home to three different species of zebra, the plains zebra, Grevy’s zebra and mountain zebra, all three species are native to Africa. jfzhp tuavpl faaxhzic dkrqj piuo jchdrrw yani cgqytjh weqw wmlyw