Grant's zebra

Grant's zebra
Grant’s zebra in the wild
Conservation status
Near Threatened  (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
Unrecognized taxon (fix):	Equinae
Genus:	Equus
Species:
Subspecies:
Trinomial name
quagga boehmi Matschie, 1892

Grant’s zebra (Equus quagga boehmi) is a subspecies of the plains zebra, naturally found in several regions of Zambia. It is the most widespread zebra in the country and plays an important role in Zambia’s savanna ecosystems. Within the national context, Grant’s zebras are commonly seen in protected areas such as Kafue National Park, Sioma Ngwezi National Park, and along parts of the upper Zambezi River basin.

Distribution in Zambia

In Zambia, Grant’s zebra is distributed west of the Luangwa River, extending across the Southern Province, Western Province, and parts of the Central Province. Notably, populations are stable in areas like Kafue National Park and the floodplains of the upper Zambezi. These regions provide ideal habitats due to the open grasslands and seasonal water sources.

Upper Zambezi population

Some researchers previously classified the zebras from western Zambia as a distinct subspecies called the **Upper Zambezi zebra** (Equus quagga zambeziensis). However, later taxonomic studies found only minor differences in size and skull shape. As a result, these populations are now generally included within the broader Grant’s zebra group.

Physical characteristics

Grant’s zebras are medium-sized and display striking black-and-white stripes. The pattern is vertical on the front, diagonal along the flanks, and horizontal on the legs. Shadow stripes are typically absent or faint. Adults usually stand between 120 and 140 cm (47 and 55 in) at the shoulder and weigh about 300 kg (660 lb). Some individuals found in Zambia may lack manes, particularly in hotter regions.

Behaviour and ecology

Zebras are social animals, living in small herds led by a dominant stallion. These family groups move together in search of grazing and water, especially during the dry season. In national parks, Grant’s zebras are often seen grazing alongside impalas, buffaloes, and wildebeests. Their primary diet consists of coarse grasses found in the savanna.

Grant’s zebras are resistant to several livestock diseases, which allows them to thrive in Zambia’s natural rangelands. The average lifespan in the wild is about 20 years.

Conservation in Zambia

Grant’s zebra is not currently endangered, and populations within Zambia’s protected areas remain relatively stable. However, habitat encroachment, illegal hunting, and competition with livestock continue to pose risks in unprotected zones. Civil conflict in neighbouring regions has also led to population shifts, but Zambia has remained a stronghold for the species.

Kafue and Sioma Ngwezi national parks serve as important sanctuaries, and the species is part of ongoing conservation and eco-tourism programmes managed by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife under the Ministry of Tourism.

Importance to ecosystems

Zebras help maintain the balance of grassland ecosystems by consuming fibrous grasses that many other herbivores avoid. Their movements also help open up grazing areas, benefiting species that follow behind.

Gallery

• 
  Mother and foal in Lakeland, Florida
• 
  Near Chilanga, Zambia
• 
  Fighting, Serengeti, Tanzania
• 
  Pregnant, Serengeti, Tanzania

See also

• Wildlife of Zambia
• Kafue National Park
• Sioma Ngwezi National Park
• Department of National Parks and Wildlife