Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra

Scientific Name: Equus zebra hartmannae

Order: Perissodactyla (odd toed ungulate)

Family: Equidae

Conservation Status

About

A Hartmann’s mountain zebra has a distinctive black and white stripped pattern. As their name suggests, they exhibit amazing climbing abilities like scaling over mountains. Hartmann’s mountain zebras can be discovered 2000 meters above sea level. Unlike other members of the horse family, they have very hard, pointed hooves, which allow them to climb the rocky terrain. It is very common to find Hartmann’s mountain zebras chasing, play fighting, and racing.

Because of the demand for land for agriculture and grassland for livestock animals, the zebra’s habitat is being destroyed and leaves them to compete with cattle for grazing areas. Zebras are hunted, both legally and illegally, many times so landowners have more room to farm.

Find me at EPZ

Location: Savanna Station

Arrived at EPZ: Zach - October 16, 2018; Othello - March 18, 2021

Habitat & Range
Hartmann’s Mountain Zebras are native to the dry, stony mountains and semi-deserts of Southwest Africa.
Identification
Adult mountain zebras measure between 82 and 102 inches in length. They can weigh an average of 600 pounds. Hartmann's mountain zebras are the only zebra species with a dewlap – a fold of skin under the throat. Their widest stripes can be seen on the upper hind legs, and the stripes continue down all the way to the hooves.
Diet
They are grazers that primarily feed on grass and browse.
Reproduction & Lifespan
Zebras reach sexual maturity after 2 years. Mating occurs year round. The gestation period is approximately 12 months and bears one foal. The average lifespan of a mountain zebra is 20 years in the wild, and 30 years in captivity.
Fantastic Fact
Although highly noticeable, the Hartmanm’s mountain zebra’s coat serves as camouflage and protection. When in a herd, the stripes can cause confusion and make it impossible for predators to determine how many zebras are grouped together. Its stripes can also make it appear unattractive to predators.

Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra

Conservation Status

About

Find me at EPZ

Habitat & Range

Identification

Diet

Reproduction & Lifespan

Fantastic Fact