The Grant (Boehm’s zebra) and the Chapman are two subspecies of the Plains Zebra. There is a distinctive stripe pattern in each species of zebra. Chapman zebras have dark brown stripes on a buff background that are less distinct on hindquarters and often alternate with pale brown shadow stripes. Grant zebras have bold stripes black on white, with wide bands separated by wide spaces. No two individual zebras are marked exactly alike. Male and female zebras look alike, although males have triangular upper canine teeth used in fighting.
The plains zebra is a hoofed mammal related to the horse and donkey. It forms its own herd or mingles with other grazing animals such as wildebeests, antelopes, and ostriches. A male zebra, known as a stallion, will gather together in a small group of mares with their foals.
To avoid capture from natural enemies, like lions and leopards, a zebra will run at speeds up to 40 mph. Extensive hunting for zebra skins has reduced population numbers. Unsuccessful attempts have been made to domesticate the species for use as mounts and work animals.
| Habitat: |
Grassy plains and mountain areas in eastern, central, and southern Africa |
| Weight: |
Females: average 484 lb. / Males: average 550 lb. |
| Length: |
7.5 ft. Tail, 22-inches. |
| Height: |
4 to 5 ft. |
| Mating: |
Seasonal |
| Gestation: |
11.5-12.5 months |
| Young: |
One |
| Family: |
Equidae |
| Order: |
Perissodactyla |
| Habit: |
Social |
| Diet: |
Herbivorous, grass and shrubs |
| Life Span: |
10-25 years in the wild / up to 35 years in captivity |
