Plains Zebra
Scientific Name
Class
Order
Range
Habitat
Estimated Wild Population
More Information
Physical Description
Plains zebras have broader stripes than other zebra species, and their stripes become even broader and more horizontal toward their flank and rear. The stripes near their neck and forelimbs are more vertical and continue into their mane. Plains zebras primarily graze on grass, herbs, leaves, and twigs. Females in each harem, led by a stallion and alpha mare, can give birth to one foal each year.
Interesting Fact 1
Zebra stripes act as a kind of camouflage, making it difficult for predators to spot them within the grasses and twigs that make up their habitat.
Interesting Fact 2
Each individual’s stripe pattern is unique and acts as an identifying characteristic similar to human fingerprints.
Interesting Fact 3
Like other equids, plains zebras can fight off predators—including lions, hyenas, and wild dogs—with a powerful kick from their hind legs.
Species Survival Plan®
We cooperate with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to manage the zoo population of this species through a Species Survival Plan®.
Commitment to Care
Lincoln Park Zoo prioritizes individual well-being over everything else. Guided by scientific research, staff and volunteers work to provide the best welfare outcomes for each individual in the zoo’s care.
Support Your Zoo
Animals Depend On People Too
When you ADOPT an animal, you support world-class animal care by helping to provide specially formulated diets, new habitat elements, and regular veterinary checkups.
Wish List
The Wish List is full of one-of-a-kind items for the zoo’s animals, including nutritious snacks and enrichment items to keep them active and healthy.
Take Action With Us
Wildlife face many daunting challenges—some global, like planet-wide climate change, and some that affect individuals, like an animal ingesting plastic—but now is not the time to despair. None of these problems are too big for us to come together and solve.
