Why do zebras have stripes?
Recent studies suggest zebras' stripes mainly help keep biting flies away. Flies seem to have trouble landing on striped surfaces, though stripes may have other benefits too.
Scientists have long debated why zebras are striped. Ideas included camouflage, confusing predators, keeping cool and helping zebras recognize each other. In experiments, horseflies approached striped coats but often failed to slow down and land, flying past or bumping into them.
Zebras live in areas with many biting flies, which can spread diseases. Their short coats make them easy targets, so stripes may give them important protection.
Every zebra is unique
No two zebras have the same stripe pattern, much like human fingerprints. Foals learn to recognize their mother by her pattern and smell. Underneath the white and black hair, a zebra's skin is dark.
Zebras live in herds that can join with wildebeest and antelope during migrations, such as the famous journey across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara. Being in a large group helps protect them from predators like lions and hyenas. When attacked, zebras may form a tight group, and a stallion will kick and bite to defend his family.
Did You Know?
There are three species of zebra: the plains zebra, the mountain zebra and Grévy's zebra, which has the thinnest stripes and is endangered.