Zebras, with their distinctive striped coats, are often seen as silent inhabitants of the African plains. However, these equids are far from quiet, possessing a rich array of vocalizations that serve various purposes within their social structures. Understanding the sounds zebras make, and what these sounds communicate, offers insights into their complex behaviors and how they navigate their environment.
A Symphony of Zebra Sounds
Zebras produce a diverse range of sounds. One common vocalization is the bark, often described as a short, sharp, and high-pitched sound, sometimes compared to a small dog’s yap. Another prominent sound is the bray, which typically begins as a low growl and rises into a high-pitched squeal, often sounding like a hiccupping or wheezy call. Zebras also make snorting noises, produced by a short burst of air through their nostrils, similar to horses.
A softer, breathier sound known as a nicker is part of their communication. Zebras also emit sharp, high-pitched squeals, particularly during moments of distress or conflict. Preliminary research indicates that Grevy’s zebras may produce low-frequency hums, possibly used during nighttime or low-visibility conditions. While all three zebra species—Plains, Grevy’s, and Mountain zebras—utilize these sound categories, variations in pitch and frequency exist, with Grevy’s zebras generally being the most vocal. Young foals produce the same types of calls as adults, though at higher pitches and softer volumes.
The Meaning Behind Their Calls
Zebra vocalizations carry specific meanings. The high-pitched bark often functions as a greeting or a means to get attention within the herd. This sound can also serve as a mild alert or a casual check-in between individuals. The iconic bray is used for multiple reasons, including courtship and asserting dominance by males. It also acts as a long-range locator call, helping herd members find each other, and can express anger or frustration.
Snorts convey different messages depending on the context; a snort can indicate alertness, curiosity, or mild alarm, prompting others to be vigilant. When accompanied by specific body language, such as pinned ears, a snort can signal danger. Conversely, a snort made when a zebra is calm might simply be a friendly greeting. The soft nicker is typically reserved for close-range bonding and affection, particularly between mothers and their foals, communicating reassurance. Squeals are clear indicators of pain or distress, frequently heard during fights among stallions or when a zebra is startled or injured.
Distinguishing Zebra Sounds from Horses
Despite their shared family lineage with horses, zebras exhibit distinct vocal differences. Zebras are considerably more vocal than horses. Their calls tend to be higher-pitched, more urgent, and occur with greater frequency compared to the generally quieter horses. While horses are known for their classic whinny or neigh, zebras primarily produce barks, brays, snorts, nickers, and squeals.
Both zebras and horses can snort, but zebras also have a characteristic barking sound that horses do not typically make. This barking sound often serves as an alarm call, alerting the herd to potential threats. The overall vocal repertoire of zebras is more varied and complex.