Plains zebra

Scientific name: Equus quagga

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

Distinctive black-and-white stripes covering the entire body. Males are noticeably larger and more heavily muscled than females, with thicker necks and shoulders.

Size and weight

Males weigh 320–340 kg with body length 210–230 cm; females weigh 280–310 kg with body length 200–220 cm.

Habitat

Open savanna grasslands and semi-arid bush country across East Africa, typically from sea level to 1500 m elevation. Prefers areas with water access and short, grazed grass.

Distribution

Found across East and Southern Africa from South Sudan to South Africa. Strongly prefers open to semi-open savanna habitat.

Diet

Primarily short grass; seasonal variation affects both availability and nutritional content.

Behaviour

Diurnal grazer most active at dawn and dusk. Lives in stable family units within larger herds and shows strong territorial behavior.

Hunting tips

Look for tracks in dust and mud around water sources; dung is deposited in scattered piles. Approach with wind advantage, use terrain for cover, and position during grazing periods. Zebra have excellent vision and hearing—patience and stillness are essential.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 8 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.