Grevy's Zebra

Equus grevyi

Grevy's zebra (Equus grevyi) is the largest living zebra and a dry-country equid of northern Kenya and Ethiopia, with former range extending more widely through the Horn of Africa. It is recognized by very narrow black stripes, a white belly, large rounded ears and a tall, mule-like frame. Unlike plains zebras, Grevy's zebras do not live in tight permanent harems; stallions defend territories around water or grazing, while mares and young move more flexibly across the landscape. The species uses arid grassland, scrub and semi-desert where access to water shapes movements.

Zoo and conservation management centers on space, social compatibility and protection of scarce range resources. Captive groups need robust fencing, dry footing, shelter from extremes and equine veterinary care for hooves, teeth, parasites and nutrition. In the wild, programs monitor numbers, reduce conflict at water points, manage disease risk from domestic livestock and maintain movement corridors. Coordinated breeding records are important because the global managed population is small, and release or support projects have to consider drought, local grazing pressure and community agreements.