Zebras have stripes for multiple adaptive reasons that help their survival. The main explanations include predator confusion, social identification, insect deterrence, and thermoregulation.

Predator Confusion and Camouflage

Zebra stripes may create a "motion dazzle" effect that confuses predators like lions and hyenas, making it harder for them to single out individual zebras, especially when the herd is moving. The stripes also break up the outline of a zebra in certain light environments, helping them blend into grass and shadows.

Social Identification

Each zebra's stripe pattern is unique, similar to human fingerprints. This uniqueness allows zebras to recognize each other, which is vital for mother- offspring bonding and maintaining herd cohesion.

Insect Deterrence

Stripes help deter biting flies and other parasites. Studies show striped patterns confuse biting flies, reducing the number of fly landings on zebras compared to animals with solid coats. This helps prevent disease transmission from insects.

Thermoregulation

There is evidence that the alternating black and white stripes may help zebras regulate body temperature. Black stripes absorb heat, while white ones reflect sunlight, possibly creating small air currents that cool the zebra’s skin. However, this theory remains somewhat contested among scientists.

Overall, zebra stripes are likely a multifaceted evolutionary adaptation that serves several functions simultaneously, enhancing survival in their environment.