Zebras are some of the most eye-catching animals in the world with their bold black-and-white stripes.
But there’s so much more to them than their unusual coats.
PIN FOR LATER 📌
From how fast they can run to why no two zebras look the same, these animals are full of surprises.
Here are 15 fascinating zebra facts kids, parents, and teachers will love learning and sharing.
15 Fun Facts About Zebras
1. There are three species of zebra.
Zebras aren’t all the same. There are three different species: the plains zebra, the mountain zebra, and Grevy’s zebra. Each type has its own special stripe pattern and habitat.
2. Plains zebras are the most common.
Plains zebras are the ones you’re most likely to see on safari in East Africa. They live in large herds and roam across countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa.
RELATED: 28 Fun Facts About Kenya For Kids
3. Grevy’s zebras are the largest.
Grevy’s zebras have narrower stripes and big round ears, making them easy to recognize. They’re also the biggest zebra species and are found in parts of Kenya and Ethiopia.
4. Mountain zebras live in rocky places.
Mountain zebras prefer steep, rocky hills and plateaus. They live mainly in South Africa and Namibia and are very good climbers compared to the other species.
5. No two zebras have the same stripes.
Just like human fingerprints, every zebra has a unique stripe pattern. This helps them recognize each other and may also confuse predators.
6. Are zebras black with white stripes, or white with black stripes?
Scientists say zebras are actually black-skinned with white stripes. Their unusual patterns are thought to help with camouflage, especially when zebras stand together in a group.
7. Zebras belong to the horse family.
Zebras are closely related to horses and donkeys. They all belong to the same family of animals called equids, which explains their similar shape and behavior.
8. Zebras live in family groups.
Zebras are very social animals. Plains zebras often live in large herds made up of many family groups, while Grevy’s zebras are more likely to live in smaller groups.
9. Zebras can sleep standing up.
Like horses, zebras are able to sleep while standing. This helps them stay alert and ready to run away if predators get too close.
10. They can run up to 40 miles per hour.
When danger strikes, zebras rely on speed to escape. They can sprint as fast as 40 miles per hour, which helps them outrun lions, hyenas, and other predators.
11. Predators often target zebras.
Zebras are prey for lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. But living in groups and having strong kicks with their back legs helps them stay safe.
12. Zebras communicate with sounds and body language.
Zebras bark, bray, and snort to warn each other of danger. They also use their ears and tails to show how they’re feeling—ears back means they’re upset, while ears forward shows they’re relaxed.
13. Zebras migrate for food and water.
In some areas, plains zebras travel hundreds of miles each year in search of fresh grass and water. These migrations are some of the greatest animal journeys in the world.
14. Zebras are an important part of African wildlife.
Zebras are one of the most recognizable animals seen on safari. They live in many African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, and South Africa, and are often found in national parks.
15. Zebras are loved all over the world.
Because of their striking looks, zebras appear in stories, cartoons, and even as mascots. They’re a symbol of the wild African savannah and are admired everywhere.
Zebras may look simple with their stripes, but there’s a lot more to discover about these amazing animals.
From their unique patterns to their lightning-fast speed, zebras are truly one of a kind. 🦓