Summary
San Diego Zoo is home to two species of zebras – the mountain zebra and the Grevy’s zebra. These iconic African equids are known for their distinctive black and white striped coats, which serve as camouflage in their natural habitats. The zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts to protect the endangered Grevy’s zebra population. Visitors can observe these fascinating animals at the African Woods exhibit and on premium safari experiences at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Species Overview
The San Diego Zoo is home to two species of zebras: the mountain zebra (Equus zebra) and the Grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi). These equids are native to Africa and are recognized for their distinctive black and white striped coats.
Mountain Zebra
- Smaller in size compared to Grevy’s zebra, weighing up to 770 pounds
- Stripes are broader and more closely spaced, with a white belly and rump
- Found in the mountainous regions of Namibia and South Africa
Grevy’s Zebra
- Largest of the three zebra species, weighing up to 1,000 pounds
- Stripes are thinner and more closely spaced, extending all the way down to the white belly and rump
- Primarily found in northern Kenya and southern Ethiopia
Conservation Efforts
The San Diego Zoo Global is actively involved in the conservation of the endangered Grevy’s zebra through its membership in the Grevy’s Zebra Trust. This independent wildlife conservation organization is dedicated to safeguarding and growing the Grevy’s zebra population in Kenya, where their numbers have been drastically reduced due to factors such as anthrax outbreaks.
As of 2020, it is estimated that there are only around 2,250 Grevy’s zebras remaining in the wild. The San Diego Zoo’s involvement in the Grevy’s Zebra Trust helps to support critical research, anti-poaching efforts, and community-based conservation initiatives to protect this species.
San Diego Zoo Zebra Exhibits
Visitors to the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park can observe and learn about these fascinating zebra species.
San Diego Zoo
- The zebra exhibit is located in the African Woods region of the zoo
- Visitors can see both mountain zebras and Grevy’s zebras in this exhibit
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- The Safari Park offers a unique opportunity to observe Grevy’s zebras up close on a premium Cart Safari or Ultimate Safari experience
- Guests can witness the Grevy’s zebras in a more natural, open-range setting
Hours and Admission
The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are open daily, with the following hours:
| Facility | Hours |
|---|---|
| San Diego Zoo | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| San Diego Zoo Safari Park | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Admission rates vary, with discounts available for children, seniors, and members. During Kids Free Month, children 11 and younger receive free admission to the Zoo and Safari Park, presented by Mission Fed.
Contact Information
For general inquiries about the San Diego Zoo’s zebra exhibits or conservation efforts, the public relations team can be reached at 619-685-3291.
References
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers. (n.d.). Zebra – San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers. Retrieved from https://sdzwildlifeexplorers.org/animals/zebra
- San Diego Zoo Animals & Plants. (n.d.). Zebra | San Diego Zoo Animals & Plants. Retrieved from https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/zebra
- San Diego Zoo. (n.d.). Zebra – San Diego Zoo. Retrieved from https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/animals/zebra
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park. (2020, September 30). Six Endangered Grevy’s Zebra Foals Make Their Debut at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Ahead of October Kids Free Month. Retrieved from https://sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org/pressroom/news-releases/six-endangered-grevys-zebra-foals-make-their-debut-san-diego-zoo-safari
- YouTube. (2011, July 9). Zebras – YouTube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUe7EU0FwSs