Z as in zebra

Friday, January 15th, 2010

No animal has a more distinctive coat than the zebra. Each animal’s stripes are as unique as fingerprints—no two are exactly alike—although each of the three species has its own general pattern.

Why do zebras have stripes at all? Scientists aren’t sure, but many theories center on their utility as some form of camouflage. The patterns may make it difficult for predators to identify a single animal from a running herd and distort distance at dawn and dusk. Or they may dissuade insects that recognize only large areas of single-colored fur or act as a kind of natural sunscreen. Because of their uniqueness, stripes may also help zebras recognize one another. source: http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/

5 Responses to “Z as in zebra”

  1. BK says:
    January 15th, 2010 at 2:04 pm

    Zebra, it can be pretty confusing to look at for a long time as the stripes will ‘play’ trick on the eyes and seem to ‘move.’ :)

  2. Eileen says:
    January 17th, 2010 at 12:03 am

    I like Zebras, they are neat looking animals. Nice photos.

  3. me and my puppies says:
    January 17th, 2010 at 12:44 am

    Such beautiful critters!

  4. Iowa Gardening Woman says:
    January 17th, 2010 at 1:05 am

    Nice shot, they look as if they are puzzled by the snow.

  5. ellen says:
    January 17th, 2010 at 1:47 am

    What a great entry you have. Hope you have a nice weekend. God Bless!