Ahoy! Let’s Think! Today we answer the question Why Do Zebras Have Stripes?!

Zebras are a certain type of equine, similar to a horse or donkey, that are native to Africa. Fortunately, you don’t have to travel all the way to Africa to see these animals as they can typically be found at your local zoo. One of the things you probably notice about them is their distinctive black and white patterned coat, which you don’t see too often in other animals.

#Zebras #AnimalFacts #ZebraStripes

So, why do zebras have this unique feature of being striped? Scientists aren't fully certain but they do have some theories. Similar to other grazing animals, their stripes may be used as protection by misleading predators. With such distinct coloring, how exactly does it trick predators? Despite the fact that grass is neither white nor black, most predators are colour blind and perceive grass as grey from afar. This allows the zebra to naturally blend into the grasslands. Also, due to the hot and humid weather, a zebra’s coat can also offer another form of protection by helping to regulate their body temperature. Another theory scientists have is that because each zebra's stripes are distinct, they may serve a social function in assisting zebras in recognising one another or finding a partner. For zebras, stripes are similar to fingerprints. They're oneofakind for each zebra.

Another question that we typically find ourselves asking when it comes to zebras is do they have a white coat with black stripes or a black coat with white stripes? At first glance, it may look like they have a white coat with black stripes but the opposite is actually the truth. Zebras actually not only have black or darker skin but also typically produce black hair follicles by default. The pigment generating follicles found in the white follicles are deactivated which produce the white stripes.

So that answers the question, Why Do Zebras Have Stripes. That took some thinking!


That took some thinking! If you have any questions you would like answered leave a comment below!

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