Fauna
Mammal

Cape Mountain Zebra

Equus zebra zebra

Also 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
Cape Mountain Zebra reference1 / 7
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—observations
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VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyRed grass, Fynbos shrubs, Sedges
Predators
  • Lions
  • Leopards
  • Spotted hyenas
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, genetic bottlenecking, hybridization with Hartmann's mountain zebra, and climate change.
HabitatsMountainous grasslands, rocky slopes, and fynbos shrublands.
Life span20 to 25 years in the wild
Classification
  1. FamilyEquidae
  2. SpeciesEquus zebra zebra
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Can deliver powerful kicks and bites if cornered; observe from a safe distance inside a vehicle.
What to notice
Look for narrow black-and-white stripes that do not meet under the white belly, and a dewlap on the throat.
Support conservation
Never approach on foot, block their movement, or crowd them at waterholes.
Responsible observation
  • 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.
Related species
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