Where zebras live

There are three types of zebras: Burchell's zebras, Grevy's zebras, and mountain zebras. Burchell's zebras are found in the rich grasslands of Eastern and Southern Africa. Grevy's zebras live on dry, sparsely wooded plains and low hills in parts of Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia. Mountain zebras inhabit Namibia and a few areas in western South Africa. Both Grevy's and mountain zebras are endangered.

Physical characteristics

Zebras stand between 47 and 55 inches (120 and 140 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. Each species of zebra can be distinguished from the others by its pattern of stripes. Burchell's zebras have broad stripes that are widely spaced. Some of this zebras may have lighter “shadow stripes” between the main stripes. The extinct quagga was a breed of Burchell's zebra with stripes only on the head, neck, and front quarters. The stripes of the Grevy's zebra are narrow and closely spaced, and the belly is white. Mountain zebras are small and have an unusual gridlike pattern of stripes on the rump.

Behavior

Zebras are chiefly grazers, and their main diet consists of tall, rough grasses. Some types also eat shrubs, herbs, and even bulbs. Herds may travel long distances to find grasses on which to feed.

Zebras communicate with each others with calls and facial expressions. Burchell's zebras make six different sounds with different meanings, including an alarm call and a squeal of pain and fear. Other zebras make similar sounds. Zebras have a keen sense of hearing.

Burchell's and mountain zebras live in small family groups headed by one male. Offspring leave the family groups when they are at 2 years of age or earlier. Zebras often form mixed herds with antelopes.

Zebras up to the age of one year often take part in running games. They gallop wildly on their own, jumping and kicking up their heels. Sometimes they chase other animals, such as gazelles, mongooses, or birds. Zebras often greet each other by nose-to-nose contact.