Snapshot Serengeti Talk

Zebra question

  • Blaydon by Blaydon

    I have seen many pairs of zebra standing side by side but facing in opposite directions.

    Is this a survival mechanism for the two animals to reduce their collective blind spot or are they just baiting the photographers to get the perfect two headed zebra shot?

    Posted

  • aliburchard by aliburchard scientist, translator

    I believe it's primarily a swatting flies mechanism. We see this in horses -- standing with your nose to someone's tail is like standing next to an automatic fly swatter.

    Posted

  • julponey by julponey

    They (horses) also do this to groom and itch each other's backs and places they can't always reach by themselves. It is a bonding expereince. Perhaps it also applies for zebras as well, being cousins and all. 😃

    Posted