Overview
In the early light, a shifting pattern of black and white may ripple across the horizon as a herd of plains zebras moves through the grass. Widespread across Tanzania’s savannahs and open woodlands, these highly social grazers are among the most recognisable animals of the African landscape.
Every zebra carries a slightly different arrangement of stripes, allowing individuals to recognise familiar herd members. The pattern may also help deter biting flies, while the combined movement of many striped bodies could make it harder for a predator to focus on one animal during a chase.
Plains zebras frequently associate with wildebeest and other herbivores. Zebras can open up taller, coarser grass, leaving shorter and more nutritious growth accessible to animals that follow behind. Their keen eyesight, hearing and sense of smell also add to the collective vigilance of mixed grazing herds.
Behaviour & How to Identify
Look for a stocky, horse-like animal covered in broad black-and-white stripes, with an upright mane, tufted tail and rounded ears. The stripes continue beneath the belly, although their width and pattern vary between individuals and populations.
The plains zebras of northern Tanzania are generally associated with Grant’s zebra, Equus quagga boehmi. This form has bold, clearly defined stripes and usually lacks the pale brown “shadow stripes” seen in some plains zebras farther south.
When danger is detected, individuals become alert, raise their heads and communicate through snorts, braying calls and body posture. There is not normally one permanently assigned “sentinel”; different herd members remain watchful while others graze. Stallions may confront predators, but the herd’s usual defence is to remain together and flee.
Interesting facts
No two stripe patterns are exactly alike. Individuals can recognise familiar companions partly through their unique markings, scent and calls.
Their stripes may help deter biting flies. Experiments suggest that flies have greater difficulty landing accurately on striped surfaces than on uniformly coloured ones.
Foals are ready to move remarkably quickly. A newborn can usually stand within minutes and begin walking within about an hour, allowing it to remain close to its mother and the herd.