Many people around the world have reached the notion that Zebras are of a single breed and are all identical to one another. One can agree that they all look alike, but as far as breed or type is concerned this is actually false. Based on geographical locations and weather, solely in Africa, breeds of different Zebra’s can be seen through out the continent. In general, there is a total of three types of Zebras living in the wild, each one with its own distinct characteristics. In this short and brief article, Ill explain these types of Zebra’s and where each can be found.

1. The Mountain Zebra

Also known as the Equus Zebra, this kind of breed is found in the Southern parts of Southern Africa, around Namibia and South Africa. Characterized by the traditional black and white stripes, their pattern can be easily differentiated from other breeds. Their stripes coming from the under belly are connected with the spinal stripes, which together stretch all the way back to the tail. This gives the effect of a converging belt with all stripes pulled to the tail. Their head tends to be smaller than other breeds and is easily noticeable too. With a life span of 20 to 24 years and an average weight of 240 to 350 kg, the Mountain Zebras are considered endangered. With their strong limbs and tough bodies, this breed is well suited for overcoming topographical elements, such as dunes and mountains, thus earning the name "Mountain Zebra".

2. Grevy Zebra

Also known as the "Equus Grevy", this breed is heavier and taller than the other two breeds. With weight ranging anywhere from 350kg to 420kg and heights reaching 63 inches, a distinction can be easily made between the three. Another way to differentiate this breed from the others is by looking at its stripe pattern. All Grevy Zebra’s have the narrowest patterns of the three breeds and have large heads. Over the years, their numbers have diminished drastically due to drought and poaching. According to their high need of water and grass, many are located in Semi Arid countries such as Kenya and Ethiopia, where sources of water are abundant. During the dry season months, many migrate in large herds in search of new plains with grass and water.

3. Plains Zebra

Know as the Equus Burchelli, this specific breed has the highest population of the other two. Found in Savannah type regions such as Eastern and Southern parts of Africa, their numbers have been seen to increase and are not considered part of the endangered species. Their average weight can be easily matched to that of the Mountain Zebra, averaging anywhere from 180 to 390 kg. Many can be found in the Serenegeti, Ngorongoro and Masai Mara national parks, where they tend to migrate between Tanzania and Kenya during the dry seasons. One way to determine this breed is through their broader stripes, which are wider than the other breeds. Hunting for this kind of zebra (with a permit) is permitted throughout, mainly because of their high number. Zebra skin and zebra rug owners mainly purchase their rugs from this type of breed.

For more information on the kinds of Zebras, I advise you to research each breed on the major search engines.