Zebras, with their striking black-and-white striped coats, are among Africa’s most recognizable and iconic animals. These equids, closely related to horses and donkeys, roam diverse landscapes across the continent. While their distinctive patterns are universally known, the variety within the zebra family is often less understood. Exploring the different types reveals a fascinating spectrum of adaptations and characteristics.
Distinct Zebra Species
Scientists currently recognize three distinct zebra species: the Plains zebra, Grévy’s zebra, and Mountain zebra. Each exhibits unique features and inhabits specific regions of Africa.
The Plains zebra (Equus quagga) is the most common and geographically widespread species. This medium-sized zebra inhabits treeless grasslands and savanna woodlands throughout much of southern and eastern Africa. Plains zebras are characterized by broader stripes that extend across their belly, a feature that helps distinguish them from other species.
The Grévy’s zebra (Equus grevyi) is the largest of the wild equids. They are found in semi-arid grasslands and scrublands in parts of Kenya and Ethiopia. Grévy’s zebras are identified by their long legs, large mule-like ears, and narrow, closely-set stripes that do not extend onto the belly. They have a distinctive, erect mane.
The Mountain zebra (Equus zebra) is the smallest of the three species. These zebras inhabit mountainous habitats in South Africa and Namibia. They have a prominent dewlap (a fold of skin) on their throat. Their stripes extend down to their hooves, but do not encircle the middle of their belly.
Subspecies and Regional Variations
Beyond the main species, zebras also exhibit diversity in the form of subspecies and regional variations. The Plains zebra, for instance, has several recognized subspecies. One well-known example is the Quagga (Equus quagga quagga), an extinct subspecies that once roamed South Africa. This subspecies had stripes mainly on its head and neck, with a more reddish-brown body. Other recognized Plains zebra subspecies include Burchell’s, Grant’s, and Chapman’s zebras, each with slight differences in stripe patterns and distribution.
The Mountain zebra is divided into two subspecies: the Cape Mountain zebra (Equus zebra zebra), found in South Africa, and Hartmann’s Mountain zebra (Equus zebra hartmannae), inhabiting southwestern Angola and Namibia. The Cape Mountain zebra is smaller with broad stripes and a pure white belly, while Hartmann’s is larger with broad stripes over an off-white belly.
Conservation Outlook
The conservation status of zebra species varies significantly. Grévy’s zebra is listed as Endangered by the IUCN Red List. Its population has declined, with estimates suggesting only 2,000 to 3,000 mature individuals remain. The Mountain zebra is classified as Vulnerable, with its population estimated at 9,000 mature individuals. The Cape Mountain zebra, a subspecies, has recovered well and is now listed as Least Concern.
The Plains zebra is designated as Near Threatened. While still numerous, with an estimated 150,000 to 250,000 mature individuals, its population is declining in many parts of its range. All zebra species face threats like habitat loss and degradation from overgrazing and agricultural expansion. Competition with livestock for scarce food and water, and poaching for meat and hides, also contribute to declines. Conservation efforts focus on protecting habitats within national parks and through community-based initiatives.