Mountain zebras possess a prominent dewlap, a fold of skin beneath their throat, particularly noticeable in males and in the Hartmann’s subspecies. Their striping pattern features narrower, more numerous black or dark brown stripes that extend to their hooves. A characteristic “gridiron” pattern also marks the posterior portion of their dorsal stripe, continuing onto the tail.
Geographical Range
Mountain zebras are native to the arid and mountainous regions of southwestern Africa. Their current distribution primarily encompasses parts of South Africa, Namibia, and southwestern Angola. Historically, these zebras were found across a broader sweep of the escarpments along the west coast of southern Africa. Today, their populations are more fragmented, existing in specific protected areas within these countries.
Specific Habitat Preferences
Mountain zebras prefer mountainous or hilly terrain, often inhabiting rocky slopes and plateaus. They can be found at elevations as high as 2,000 meters, descending to lower altitudes during colder months. Their diet primarily consists of tufted grasses, but they can also browse on bark, twigs, leaves, and roots when grass is scarce. Permanent water sources are important, and they are known to dig deep holes to access groundwater during dry periods.
Subspecies and Their Distinct Habitats
The mountain zebra species comprises two subspecies.
Cape Mountain Zebra
The Cape Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra zebra) is found exclusively in South Africa, primarily within the Western and Eastern Cape provinces. Its populations are restricted to several mountain reserves and national parks, including Mountain Zebra National Park, Gamka Mountain Reserve, Karoo National Park, and the Kamanassie mountains. This subspecies tends to inhabit the higher slopes and kloofs within these areas.
Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra
Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra hartmannae), the larger of the two subspecies, is primarily distributed across Namibia and extends marginally into southwestern Angola. These zebras typically occupy the mountainous transition zone between the Namib Desert and the central plateau. Key habitats include areas within Skeleton Coast Park, Etosha National Park, Namib-Naukluft Park, and the Ai-Ais-Hunsberg Park complex. Hartmann’s mountain zebras often prefer ecotone zones, which are transitional areas between mountain slopes and dry sandy flats at the base of the mountains.
Adaptations for Mountainous Living
Mountain zebras exhibit physical and behavioral traits that enable them to thrive in their rugged habitats. Their hooves are hard and pointed, providing superior grip and stability when navigating steep, rocky terrain, which allows for agile movement and sure-footedness on uneven surfaces. Their strong legs facilitate climbing and traversing challenging mountain landscapes. Their striping pattern also serves as camouflage, helping to break up their outline against the rugged background and aiding in evading predators. Mountain zebras can also dig for water, a behavioral adaptation that allows them to access essential resources in arid environments.