Zebra

why Zebras have stripes

An exploration into the scientific evidence behind why zebras evolved their iconic black and white patterns, debunking common myths along the way.

Check your understanding

1. What is the currently accepted scientific consensus for why zebras have stripes?
- A. To hide from predators in tall grass
- B. To help members of the herd recognize each other
- C. To act as a deterrent against biting flies
- D. To regulate body temperature in the sun
2. Which of the following is true about a zebra's physical appearance?
- A. They have white skin underneath their fur
- B. They have black skin underneath their fur
- C. They have pink skin underneath their fur
- D. They have patterns that exactly match other zebras
3. How do stripe patterns compare between individual zebras?
- A. They are identical within a family unit
- B. They become more similar as the zebras age
- C. They are unique to every individual zebra
- D. They are based on the zebra's geographical location
4. Why is the 'camouflage' theory for zebra stripes considered a misconception?
- A. Predators detect zebras through smell and sound, not just vision
- B. There is no tall grass in the zebras' natural habitat
- C. Lions prefer to hunt solid-colored animals
- D. Zebras are not actually hunted by predators

1. If a scientist wanted to prove that stripes deter flies, what would be the most effective study method?
- A. Observing zebras sleeping in the sun to check for heat
- B. Painting solid-colored cows with stripes and counting fly landings
- C. Recording the social behavior of horses versus zebras
- D. Measuring the speed at which zebras move away from predators
2. How do stripes specifically interfere with the landing behavior of biting flies?
- A. The stripes emit a chemical that repels flies
- B. The stripes reflect heat to create cooling wind currents
- C. The pattern confuses the flies' ability to judge speed and distance
- D. The pattern is too dark for flies to see during the day
3. Why is the study of evolutionary geography useful for this topic?
- A. It proves zebras move to different regions to change their patterns
- B. It confirms that striped equids evolved where fly activity is high
- C. It demonstrates that zebras only live where the grass is striped
- D. It shows that horses evolved from zebras to avoid predators
4. Which statement best reconciles the 'thermoregulation' theory with current scientific findings?
- A. It is the primary reason for stripes, as zebras must stay cool
- B. It is partially true, but mostly used by zebras to hide in shade
- C. It lacks sufficient evidence and is not considered a primary survival advantage
- D. It is a proven fact that stripes create significant cooling air currents

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