A member of the horse family, Zebras are any of three species that roam the plains and mountains of Africa. These include the mountain zebras, the Grevy’s zebra and the plains zebras of which there are three subspecies. There are three living sub-species of plains zebra: the Grant’s Zebra, Chapman’s Zebra, and Burchell’s Zebra. Each sub-species with slight variations in color and stripe pattern.
The Grant’s Zebra (Equus quagga boehmi), the smallest and most widespread species are normally found in grasslands. This fabulous animal has a robust body with white or dirty-white fur marked with extensive bold black and white vertical stripes. These vertical stripes run and grow wider as it painted the animal’s front and belly. The stripes become horizontal on the legs, and diagonally on the rump. It has an erect mane and large donkey-like ears marked with thick fur inside.
These amazing animals live in herds and graze on long, coarse grasses. They will graze arranged in a circle with their heads pointed out. This positioning helps them to recognize potential predators more quickly. A stallion leads a herd comprising 7-8 mares and a number of juvenile offspring. Each herd can merge to form “super herd” that may number up to 300 individuals.
Adult males measure to about 120-140 cm (47-55 in) at the shoulder and can weigh up to 300 kg (660 lbs). Females reach sexual maturity at about 3 years. The gestation period lasts about 11-12 month, then an offspring is delivered. sis about A single offspring is born after an 11-12 month gestation period. On average Grant’s zebras can live up to 20 years.
wow!!! interesting learning about this wonderful stripe skinned animal. They are fascinating and indeed their characteristics as well.
ReplyDeleteI knew it there's a reason behind those beautiful stripes :)
ReplyDeleteZebras are gorgeous aren't they? Another beautiful animals that I love are giraffes.
ReplyDeleteI have always believed that zebras are one of the most beautiful animals in the world. Their bodies are truly works of art!
ReplyDeleteAwesome! They can live up to 20 years if they're still alive but the good thing is, they're always alert when there's danger. They've lived in a survival land and they have to do almost anything to survive.. Great post! :D
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