Zebra Patterns

• by inaspin

  Has anyone really looked at the stripe patterns on zebras? I mean in an academic manner. I'm beginning to get that "None of these things is just like the other" feeling. It is making me want to knit socks. Perhaps when we've finished series 6!

  Posted September 13, 2013 4:46 AM

• by davidbygott moderator

  They are very variable. Like fingerprints, there is a basic logic to the pattern but each individual is unique, and they are not perfectly symmetrical either.

  Posted September 14, 2013 11:45 PM

• by inaspin

  Thanks Sir. I think I'm getting the basic logic in the layout of the patterns (shoulder and hip deviations). Love the way the stripes go on into the mane and the way the tail looks "plaited".

  Posted September 15, 2013 4:42 AM

• by BHamer

  The striping on some individuals seems be "more unique" than on others. (I know "more unique" is like "a little bit pregnant," but I think we know what I mean.) Here's one that struck me as being like that: ASG000pgzh

  Posted September 17, 2013 4:52 AM

• by inaspin

  Yes - lack of continuity between vertical stripes and the horizontals around the rump. Do you see "ghost" stripes on the rump Too?

  Posted September 30, 2013 4:27 AM