What’s the difference between the Common Zebra, Grevy’s Zebra, and Chapman’s Zebra?
The Common Zebra (Equus burchellii) and the Grévy’s Zebra (Equus grevyi) both have black and white stripes, whereas the Chapman’s Zebra (Equus burchellii antiquorum) has brown and white stripes with a “shadow” grey stripe.
The Common Zebra and the Chapman’s Zebra look more like short-legged horses, whereas the Grévy’s Zebra looks more like a mule.
The Common Zebra and the Chapman’s Zebra have wider stripes than the Grévy’s Zebra.
The Common Zebra and the Chapman’s Zebra have stripes on their belly, whereas the Grévy’s Zebra has a white unstriped belly.
Common Zebra (left), Grevy’s Zebra (middle), and Chapman’s Zebra (right)
The Common Zebra and the Grévy’s Zebra have stripes on their legs, whereas the Chapman’s Zebra has only partially striped legs.
The Common Zebra and the Chapman’s Zebra are shorter than the Grévy’s Zebra. The Common Zebra and the Chapman’s Zebra are about 1.4 metres (4.8 feet) tall, whereas the Grévy’s Zebra is about 2.5 metres (8.2 feet) tall.
The Common Zebra and the Chapman’s Zebra have grey-black noses, whereas the Grévy’s Zebra has a paler nose.
The Common Zebra and the Chapman’s Zebra live in herds and harems, whereas the Grévy’s Zebra is mainly a solitary animal, sharing the same herd as the Common Zebra.
Common Zebra
Grevy’s Zebra with the white unstriped belly
Chapman’s Zebra with the “shadow” stripes
Photographer: Martina Nicolls
Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM