Spotted: Rare White Polka Dotted Zebra Baby

When I picture a zebra, I imagine the classic black-and-white striped coat. However, this zebra defies all expectations. In the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, the birth of a unique zebra has caught the attention of the media. Read further to learn why this young foal was born looking very different from the rest of the herd.

Tira – The White Polka-Dotted Zebra

In September 2019, a unique plains zebra (Equus quagga) foal with a unique coloration was born in the Masai Mara National Park. This zebra was the first in the park to be born with such unique coloration. However, in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, similar foals have been seen. The white polka dotted zebra has a rare genetic mutation called pseudomelanism. This mutation presents a mostly black coat with white spots. This pigment is so uncommon that it has earned her the title of the rarest zebra in the world.

A Meaningful Name

The name Tira was given to her by the locals. This means ‘small village’ in Hebrew. They chose this name because she stands out among the other zebras in the Masai Mara, as would a small village in the vast savannah.

Since her birth, Tira has been fitting in well amongst the herd of Zebra. Although she is different the herd has not ostracized her.

Characteristics of Zebra

• Coat: Zebras are black with white stripes. Although this is commonly debated, several pieces of evidence confirm that they are black with white stripes. Analysis of their embryos and genetic information confirm that zebras start out with black skin and develop white stripes later in the embryonic stage.

• Social Animals: Zebras are social animals. They move in herds for protection against predators. Their family units consist of one stallion, several mares, and their young. Multiple family units may join together to form larger herds. This commonly occurs during migrations.

• Herbivorous Diet: They feed primarily on grasses, leaves, and other plant materials.

• Excellent Vision: Zebras have large eyes on the sides of their heads. This provides them with a wide field of view suitable for spotting predators.

• Strong Hearing: Zebras possess acute hearing, which is crucial for detecting the sounds of potential threats.

• About
• Latest Posts

Freddie Hiney

Author at Animals Around The Globe

Freddie is a writer and digital marketing professional with a First-Class Honours degree in Marketing and Journalism. Influenced by his father, an internationally published journalist, and author, Freddie's love for writing is deeply ingrained. He appreciates thought-provoking, clear, raw, and honest writing, always infused with hope.

Please send any feedback to Feedback@animalsaroundtheglobe.com

Latest posts by Freddie Hiney (see all)

• Pennsylvania: Unveiling the State’s Most Dangerous Animals - November 24, 2024
• Deep-Sea Wonders: Extraordinary Abyssal Adaptations - November 23, 2024
• Texas Treasures: The Diverse Wildlife of the Lone Star State - November 23, 2024