View source for Grant's zebra


{{subspeciesbox
| name = Grant's zebra
| image = Equus quagga.jpg
| image_caption = Grant’s zebra in the wild
| status = NT
| status_system = IUCN3.1
| genus = Equus
| species = quagga
| species_link = Plains zebra
| subspecies = boehmi
| authority = Matschie, 1892
}}

'''Grant’s zebra''' (''Equus quagga boehmi'') is a subspecies of the plains zebra, naturally found in several regions of Zambia. It is the most widespread zebra in the country and plays an important role in Zambia’s savanna ecosystems. Within the national context, Grant’s zebras are commonly seen in protected areas such as [[Kafue National Park]], [[Sioma Ngwezi National Park]], and along parts of the upper [[Zambezi River]] basin.

== Distribution in Zambia ==
In Zambia, Grant’s zebra is distributed west of the [[Luangwa River]], extending across the [[Southern Province]], [[Western Province]], and parts of the [[Central Province]]. Notably, populations are stable in areas like Kafue National Park and the floodplains of the upper Zambezi. These regions provide ideal habitats due to the open grasslands and seasonal water sources.

== Upper Zambezi population ==
Some researchers previously classified the zebras from western Zambia as a distinct subspecies called the **Upper Zambezi zebra** (''Equus quagga zambeziensis''). However, later taxonomic studies found only minor differences in size and skull shape. As a result, these populations are now generally included within the broader Grant’s zebra group.

== Physical characteristics ==
Grant’s zebras are medium-sized and display striking black-and-white stripes. The pattern is vertical on the front, diagonal along the flanks, and horizontal on the legs. Shadow stripes are typically absent or faint. Adults usually stand between {{convert|120|and|140|cm|abbr=on}} at the shoulder and weigh about {{convert|300|kg|abbr=on}}. Some individuals found in Zambia may lack manes, particularly in hotter regions.

== Behaviour and ecology ==
Zebras are social animals, living in small herds led by a dominant stallion. These family groups move together in search of grazing and water, especially during the dry season. In national parks, Grant’s zebras are often seen grazing alongside impalas, buffaloes, and wildebeests. Their primary diet consists of coarse grasses found in the savanna.

Grant’s zebras are resistant to several livestock diseases, which allows them to thrive in Zambia’s natural rangelands. The average lifespan in the wild is about 20 years.

== Conservation in Zambia ==
Grant’s zebra is not currently endangered, and populations within Zambia’s protected areas remain relatively stable. However, habitat encroachment, illegal hunting, and competition with livestock continue to pose risks in unprotected zones. Civil conflict in neighbouring regions has also led to population shifts, but Zambia has remained a stronghold for the species.

Kafue and Sioma Ngwezi national parks serve as important sanctuaries, and the species is part of ongoing conservation and eco-tourism programmes managed by the [[Department of National Parks and Wildlife]] under the Ministry of Tourism.

== Importance to ecosystems ==
Zebras help maintain the balance of grassland ecosystems by consuming fibrous grasses that many other herbivores avoid. Their movements also help open up grazing areas, benefiting species that follow behind.

==Gallery==
<gallery>
File:Grants_Zebras_Florida.jpg|Mother and foal in [[Lakeland, Florida]]
File:Equus quagga boehmi (couple).jpg|Near Chilanga, [[Zambia]]
File:Grant's_Zebra,_fighting,_Serengeti.jpg|Fighting, [[Serengeti]], [[Tanzania]]
File:Grant's_Zebra,_pregnant_again,_Serengeti.jpg|Pregnant, Serengeti, Tanzania
</gallery>

== References ==
{{reflist}}

== See also ==
* [[Wildlife of Zambia]]
* [[Kafue National Park]]
* [[Sioma Ngwezi National Park]]
* [[Department of National Parks and Wildlife]]

[[Category:Zebras]]
[[Category:Mammals of Zambia]]
[[Category:Fauna of Zambia]]
[[Category:Animals of the Zambezi Basin]]