Natural History Wanderings

Ever wonder why Zebras have stripes? Question the purpose of Zebras’ black and white striped patterns?

BBC reported researchers have concluded that stripes protect Zebras by masking their movements. Using computer models the study demonstrated that the stripes create optical illusions confusing  predators. The broad diagonal stripes on a zebra’s flank and the narrower vertical stripes on its back and neck create unexpected motion signals that confuse viewers, particularly in a herd of zebras. This causes biting insects to abort their landings and pursuing predators to mistime attacks.

Learn more at:  BBC Nature – Zebra stripes mystery ‘explained’.

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