Plains Zebra

The Plains Zebra is a beautiful ungulate that is known through out the world for its iconic stripes and horse like appearance. The Plains Zebra is 50 to 55 inches tall at the shoulder, and it has a body length of 85 to 97 inches. They weigh 386 to 551 pounds. Though the common coat marking on a Plains Zebra is the well known white fur with black stripes there has been individuals known to be black with white spots. There has also been zebras that have "golden" stripes. This is nota true gold it is the leucistic color morph of the Plains Zebra. The Plains Zebra is spread all across Africa from the edges of the Sahara to the vast mountainous region of Ethiopia. The Plains Zebras primarily feed on grass, but they will feed on Kangaroo grass, Couch Grass, Tufted Grass, Anjan Grass, Butterfly tree, round leaved blood wood, leaves, and twigs. They Can be spotted feeding in high vegetated areas with Thompsons Gazelle near by. They are preyed on by lions, nile crocodiles, and spotted hyenas. Less common predators to prey on the Plains Zebra include the African wild dog, Leopards, and Cheetahs. When a predator is chasing a Plains Zebra the Plains Zebra will run between 37 and 43 miles per hour to escape whatever danger it might be in. They are more active during the day. They spend most of their time grazing, but other activities include dust bathing, rubbing, and drinking at waterholes. Mares (females) give birth to one foal every 12 months. A new born foal weighs between 66 and 77 pounds. A newborn foal is able to stand up almost immediately. I hope you enjoyed learning about the majestic and beautiful Plains Zebra.