Cebra

Cebra is the common name for the zebra, a hoofed mammal native to Africa. Zebras belong to the genus Equus and comprise three widely recognized species: the plains zebra (Equus quagga), Grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi), and the mountain zebra (Equus zebra). They are known for their black-and-white striped coats, with stripe patterns that are unique to each individual. The stripes are thought to aid camouflage in tall grasses, promote social bonding, and assist in regulating body temperature.

The plains zebra is the most widespread, inhabiting savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands across eastern and southern Africa. Grevy’s zebra is larger with finer stripes and lives in arid and semi-arid regions of eastern Africa; it is the most threatened of the three species. Mountain zebras have broader, more shadowed stripes and occur in mountainous areas of southern Africa, where they are divided into subspecies.

Zebra social structure typically centers on groups led by a dominant stallion, consisting of related mares and their offspring. They are herbivorous grazing animals, feeding mainly on grasses but adapting to other vegetation when grasses are scarce. Reproduction usually yields a single foal after a gestation of about 12 to 13 months; foals are often reared by their mothers and the group.

Conservation status varies by species. Plains zebras are widely listed as Least Concern due to their large numbers and broad distribution, while Grevy’s zebra and mountain zebras face greater threats from habitat loss, hunting, and competition with livestock, leading to more restricted, protected populations in many areas.