The zebra, unlike the wildebeest, is a non-ruminant or [G 23 / hindgut fermenter] and was not affected by the rinderpest epidemics of the first half of this century. The population has remained relatively stable at between 220,000 and 240,000 since the first census in 1961.
The zebra, with its [P 018 / characteristic black and white stripes], is one of the most recognized animals in the world. Each zebra has a unique pattern of stripes; no two zebras are exactly alike. They appear conspicuous, however, their stripes provide a very effective camouflage, especially at dusk and dawn when most predators hunt. The stripes tend to blur the outline of the animal when it moves and it appears gray in dim light.
The domestic horse and zebra are members of the same genus, Equus. However, the evolution of the zebra is very distinct from that of the domestic horse. Man has had a profound influence in the evolution of the domestic horse through selective breeding. In contrast, nature alone has shaped the modern zebra, accounting, in part, for the distinct physical and behavioral differences between these modern [G 16 / equids].
Zebras move in large herds consisting of family groups of 10 to 15 mares, their foals, and a stallion. The stallion protects the group from predators and other male zebras. Once young females reach sexual maturity they leave and join another stallion's group. Males between one and three years old become part of bachelor herds until they are ready to mate.
[G 36 / Peak birth period] for zebras is in December and January while the population is on the plains. However, the peak is less distinctive than that of the wildebeest and foals are born other times of the year. About two-thirds of the newborn foals die from disease, malnutrition and predation. Packs of wild dogs, hyenas and [P 008 / cheetahs] pose the greatest threat to newborn foals on the plains.
