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What Are Zebra Herds Like?

Zebras, relatives of the horse, are one of natures most recognizable and distinctive creatures. They are also one of the most social creatures, not only with each other but with other animals as well, and contrary to popular belief, they are far from defenseless.

Species
- There are three living zebra species. Grevy's zebra is the largest of them and has many, narrow stripes compared to other zebras and a long, narrow head. The mountain zebra is the smallest of the zebras and can be identified by the dewlap on its upper throat and its white underbelly. Plains zebras, also called Burchell's zebras, are the most common zebras; about 12 subspecies of the plains zebra are spread across southern and eastern Africa. A fourth species, the Quagga zebra, is extinct, but an effort is underway to bring it back through selective breeding.
Herds
- Zebras live in small family groups with their own home range but are nomadic within that range and migratory. Family units will typically consist of a male, several females and foals. When traveling or grazing, family units will combine with other family units to form a herd. At times, especially during the migration season, these herds can number in the thousands. Zebras tend to be more active during the day. At night, they settle in pastures where they are protected from ambush. Herds remain alert to danger, and a family unit will surround a wounded animal and attempt to drive off predators. Adult zebras have a powerful kick that can seriously injure a hyena or lion.
Individuals
- Individual zebras are between 3.5 and 5 feet at the shoulder and weigh between 440 and 990 lbs. They have excellent hearing and eyesight adapted for spotting predators and can run at up to 35 miles per hour. A baby zebra can walk 20 minutes after birth and can run after only an hour. This is important, not only because of predators but because zebras are constantly on the move in search of food and water.
Social
- Zebras are extremely social animals. All of their sounds, facial expressions and the tamping of their hooves send messages to other animals in the herd. They reinforce their bonds with one another by grooming. Zebras are commonly seen in the company of wildebeests during migration but also frequently associate with giraffes, impala and baboons.

Animals & Science