Mountain Zebra vs. Plain Zebra

Attribute	Mountain Zebra	Plain Zebra
Scientific Name	Equus zebra zebra	Equus quagga
Habitat	Mountainous regions of southern Africa	Grasslands and savannas of Africa
Physical Appearance	Shorter and stockier with vertical stripes	Taller and leaner with horizontal stripes
Population	Endangered with estimated 9,000 individuals	Least concern with estimated 750,000 individuals

Physical Characteristics

Mountain zebras, as the name suggests, are found in mountainous regions and have adapted to their environment by having a stockier build and thicker coat compared to plain zebras. They also have a dewlap, or flap of skin, under their necks. In contrast, plain zebras have a sleeker build and a thinner coat, making them better suited for the grasslands and savannas where they typically reside. They do not have a dewlap like mountain zebras.

Stripes

One of the most distinctive features of zebras is their black and white stripes. Mountain zebras have vertical stripes on their necks and torso, while plain zebras have stripes that extend all the way down to their hooves. The stripes on plain zebras are also thinner and closer together compared to mountain zebras. These stripes serve as a form of camouflage in their respective habitats, helping them blend in with the tall grasses or rocky terrain.

Behavior

Mountain zebras are known to be more solitary compared to plain zebras, which often travel in large herds. This difference in behavior is likely due to their different habitats and the availability of resources. Mountain zebras have to navigate rugged terrain and sparse vegetation, leading them to forage alone or in small groups. Plain zebras, on the other hand, benefit from safety in numbers and can often be seen grazing together in large numbers.

Range

Mountain zebras are native to southern Africa, specifically in countries like Namibia and South Africa. They are typically found in mountainous regions with rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation. Plain zebras, on the other hand, have a much wider range and can be found in various countries across Africa, from Kenya to South Africa. They prefer open grasslands and savannas where they can easily spot predators and find food.

Conservation Status

Both mountain zebras and plain zebras face threats to their populations due to habitat loss, poaching, and competition with livestock. However, mountain zebras are considered more endangered compared to plain zebras. There are three subspecies of mountain zebras, and each of them is listed as vulnerable or endangered on the IUCN Red List. Plain zebras, on the other hand, are classified as a species of least concern, with stable populations in many parts of Africa.

Reproduction

Mountain zebras have a longer gestation period compared to plain zebras, lasting around 12 months. They typically give birth to a single foal, which they protect fiercely from predators. Plain zebras, on the other hand, have a shorter gestation period of around 11 months and can give birth to a single foal or occasionally twins. They rely on the safety of the herd to protect their young from predators.