Zebras are unique and fascinating creatures. From their characteristic stripes to their unique skills and behaviors, there is so much to know about these amazing animals. But beyond seeing them at the zoo a few times, what do you really know about them? If you’re looking to learn more about zebras, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up our favorite fun facts about zebras right here. Ready to learn more about these incredible animals?
#1 Each Zebra’s Stripes Are Unique.
Each individual zebra’s stripes are unique. Because of this, scientists think their stripes may serve a social purpose in helping zebras identify one another. While we don’t know for sure why zebras have stripes, other theories include that they may help confuse predators and biting insects, or perhaps help control the animal’s body heat.
#2 A Zebra’s Mane Stands Straight Up.
A zebra’s mane always stands straight up. Why? Because each zebra has a special pad of fat underneath its mane that keeps it standing up straight!
#3 Zebras Have Families.
Within a herd, zebras tend to stay together in smaller family groups. These are usually made up of a dominant male (stallion), several females (mares), and their young (foals). When young males reach the age of 1 – 3 years old, they leave to join an all-male bachelor group, where they stay until they grow old enough and strong enough to compete for females in the larger herd.
#4 Zebras Sometimes Form Super Herds.
Zebras are social creatures who live together in large groups. When they migrate to new feeding grounds, they sometimes form “super herds” by teaming up with other zebra herds as well as other grazers like antelopes and wildebeests. Super herds are sometimes so large that they can include thousands of individual members!
#5 Zebras Are Herbivores.
Zebras are herbivores. They spend most of their day eating grass. Sometimes they will eat leaves, shrubs, twigs, and bark, too. Their teeth are well adapted for grazing and feature sharp incisors at the front for biting grass and large molars at the back for grinding it.
#6 There Are 3 Different Zebra Species.
There are 3 different zebra species on Earth: the Plains zebra, Grevy’s zebra, and the Mountain zebra. All 3 species are native to Africa.
#7 Zebras Can Make Many Sounds.
Zebras can make many sounds. Mountain zebras whinny, Grevy’s zebras bray, and Plains zebras bark. Alarmed zebras might squeal or snort, and happy zebras sometimes push air between their lips while eating to convey their good mood.
Are these fun facts about zebras not enough for you? Want to learn even more fascinating science facts? Then check out these facts about water or read all about the Moon right here!