Zebras are among Africa’s most recognizable mammals, defined by their distinctive black and white striped coats. These equids belong to the genus Equus, along with horses and asses, and are native only to the continent of Africa. Based on current scientific consensus, there are three recognized species of zebra alive today. These species inhabit diverse regions, from open savannas to rugged mountains, and each possesses unique characteristics.
The Three Recognized Species
The three recognized species are the Plains Zebra (Equus quagga), the Grévy’s Zebra (Equus grevyi), and the Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra). The Plains Zebra is the most numerous and geographically widespread, inhabiting grasslands across eastern and southern Africa. This highly social species is often seen in large herds, sometimes migrating over long distances.
Grévy’s Zebra
The Grévy’s Zebra is the largest species, characterized by its narrow stripes and large, rounded ears. It is restricted to the semi-arid grasslands of Kenya and Ethiopia.
Mountain Zebra
The Mountain Zebra is generally the stockiest, featuring a distinctive dewlap on its neck. It lives in dry upland plains and mountainous areas in southern Africa, specifically in Namibia and South Africa.
Distinguishing Features and Geographic Range
The stripe pattern is the most immediate way to differentiate the three species, as the markings are unique to each type.
Plains Zebra
The Plains Zebra features broad, widely spaced stripes that cover the entire body, often including lighter “shadow stripes” between the main black bands. In southern populations, the stripes often fade to white on the lower legs. This species is found across a vast area, from South Sudan down to northern South Africa.
Grévy’s Zebra
The Grévy’s Zebra has a dense pattern of very narrow, closely set black and white stripes. Its stripes do not extend to its white belly, and its large ears give its head a distinct profile. Its range is the most restricted, limited to parts of Kenya and Ethiopia.
Mountain Zebra
The Mountain Zebra is distinguishable by its pronounced dewlap and a unique grid-like pattern of stripes across its rump. The stripes on its head and shoulders are closely spaced, but they become wider on the haunches. This species is confined to the rugged, mountainous terrain of southwestern Africa.
Taxonomic Complexity and Subspecies
While three species are recognized, taxonomy is complicated by the existence of numerous subspecies, particularly within the Plains and Mountain Zebras. The Plains Zebra (E. quagga) has historically been divided into six subspecies based on variations in stripe patterns and geographic location. Genetic studies suggest these subspecies represent a continuous biological gradient, or cline, rather than discrete populations.
The extinct Quagga, which once roamed South Africa, was initially classified as a full species. It is now recognized as the southernmost subspecies of the Plains Zebra (Equus quagga quagga). Its distinct appearance—stripes only on the head, neck, and forequarters—was long thought to indicate species status, but DNA analysis confirmed its close relationship.
The Mountain Zebra (E. zebra) is divided into two subspecies: the Cape Mountain Zebra and Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra. The existence of these distinct geographic populations necessitates management strategies that consider them separately.
Conservation Status
The conservation outlook for the three zebra species varies significantly, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
Plains Zebra
The Plains Zebra, despite being the most common, is listed as Near Threatened due to widespread population declines. Its primary threats are habitat loss caused by human expansion and conversion of land for agriculture.
Mountain Zebra
The Mountain Zebra is listed as Vulnerable, including its two recognized subspecies: the Cape Mountain Zebra and Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra. This species is vulnerable due to its fragmented habitat and competition with livestock for grazing land.
Grévy’s Zebra
The Grévy’s Zebra is the most threatened of the three, classified as Endangered. Its population has seen a massive decline, with estimates indicating only around 3,000 mature individuals remain. The main factors driving this status are habitat degradation, reduced access to water, and competition with domestic animals.