Zebra stripes have puzzled scientists ever since the question was debated between Alfred Russel Wallace and Charles Darwin, some 120 years ago. Today, however, we know the answer!
In a study published by UC Davis University in 2014, evidence was presented explaining why the zebra has its unique appearance. Zebra stripes protect against biting flies. By studying zebras from different herds and regions, researchers found that the stripes form denser patterns in areas where the pressure from blood-sucking flies is higher. Something about the zebra’s striped coat causes biting flies to avoid their striped prey in favour of others.
But why aren’t all hoofed animals in these regions striped? Well, a zebra’s hair is shorter than the mouthparts of the flies, so it doesn’t provide the same protection against these biting pests – something that potentially makes zebras more sensitive to annoyance from biting flies.
The discovery of this striped phenomenon has not only solved a century-old question but also opened the door for further research, as the discussion can now shift from why zebras have stripes to why the stripes deter biting flies.
Today, Wildhood Foundation protect 1,5 million hectares of wilderness across three countries in southern Africa, habitat that is the home to zebras as well as thousands of other species of mammals, insects and trees. Thank you for your support in safeguarding these incredible species.
