Species · GBIF taxon 7194164
Cape Mountain Zebra
Equus zebra zebraAlso known as Cape Zebra
Cape mountain zebras are striking, stocky equids distinguished by their narrow, vertical body stripes, a characteristic gridiron pattern of horizontal bars across the rump, and a prominent dewlap on the throat. They form small, stable breeding herds consisting of a single stallion and a few mares with their offspring, navigating steep, rocky terrain with remarkable agility. Once on the brink of extinction, these resilient herbivores play a vital role in grazing down tough mountain fynbos and grassland vegetation.
Mountain-dwellingSocialHerbivore
- diet
- Herbivorous, feeding primarily on a variety of grasses, sedges, and shrubs.
- family
- Equidae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, genetic bottlenecking, hybridization with Hartmann's mountain zebra, and climate change.
- life Span
- 20 to 25 years in the wild
VU
Can deliver powerful kicks and bites if cornered; observe from a safe distance inside a vehicle.
Recovering from near-extinction, this subspecies remains vulnerable to genetic isolation and habitat loss.
Never approach on foot, block their movement, or crowd them at waterholes.- Keep your distance: Always view these wild equids from a vehicle or designated safe lookout points.
- Look for the dewlap: Identify them by the distinct fold of skin on the throat, unique to mountain zebras.
- Watch herd dynamics: Observe the stallion's protective behavior as he herds his mares away from potential threats.