Zebra
Africa's iconic striped equid
The zebra is one of Africa's most recognizable and photogenic animals, distinguished by its unique black and white stripes. A zebra hunt offers the opportunity to pursue one of the continent's most beautiful creatures while producing spectacular trophies including sought-after striped hides and rugs.
Shoulder Height
50 - 52 in (127-132cm)
Weight (Stallions)
550 - 800 lbs
Trophy Type
Hide/Rug Mount
Horn Type
N/A (Equid)
Identification
- • Distinctive black and white stripes
- • Each animal has unique stripe pattern
- • Horse-like body with erect mane
- • Shadow stripes on hindquarters (Burchell's)
- • Dewlap present in mountain zebra
Habitat & Range
- • Open savanna and grasslands
- • Mountainous terrain (mountain zebra)
- • Southern and eastern Africa
- • Never far from water sources
- • Herds follow seasonal grazing
Trophy Information
- • Flat skin/rug mount most popular
- • Pedestal or shoulder mount available
- • Skull mount (unique teeth display)
- • Select mature stallions for best hides
- • Quality varies with stripe clarity
Did You Know?
Every zebra has a unique stripe pattern, similar to a human fingerprint - no two are exactly alike. Scientists can identify individual zebras by their stripe patterns using computer analysis. The purpose of zebra stripes has long puzzled researchers, with theories including camouflage, confusion of predators, social bonding, temperature regulation, and most recently, deterring biting flies. Zebra hides are highly prized for rugs and leather goods, making them one of the most valuable plains game trophies.
About Zebra Hunting
Zebras are members of the horse family (Equidae) and are among Africa's most distinctive and recognizable animals. Unlike antelopes, zebras do not have horns, so trophies are based on the quality of the hide rather than horn measurements. A zebra hunt offers both a challenging pursuit and a spectacular trophy.
Physical Characteristics
Burchell's zebra (the most commonly hunted species) stands around 52 inches at the shoulder, with stallions weighing 550-800 pounds. They have a distinctive erect mane and characteristic "shadow stripes" (faint brown stripes between the main black stripes) on the hindquarters. Each animal's stripe pattern is unique.
Hartmann's mountain zebra is slightly smaller and leaner, adapted to rough terrain. They have a distinctive dewlap (throat fold) and lack shadow stripes. Their stripes are narrower and more numerous, extending down to the hooves.
Behavior & Social Structure
Zebras live in family groups led by a dominant stallion with several mares and their offspring. Bachelor males form separate groups until they can acquire their own harem. Herds have strict hierarchies, often moving in single file with senior members at the front.
Zebras have excellent eyesight and hearing, making them difficult to approach. They're often found mixed with other plains game species, benefiting from collective vigilance. They're water-dependent, typically drinking daily.
Huntable Species
Burchell's (Plains) Zebra
Equus quagga burchellii
Most common and widely hunted zebra. Shadow stripes on hindquarters, no dewlap. Found throughout southern and eastern Africa.
Weight: 550-800 lbs | Height: ~52"
Hartmann's Mountain Zebra
Equus zebra hartmannae
Found in Namibia's mountainous regions. Distinctive dewlap, narrower stripes, adapted to rough terrain. More challenging hunt.
Requires excellent physical fitness
Protected Species Warning
Cape Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra zebra) is protected and cannot be hunted. Grevy's Zebra (Equus grevyi) is endangered and protected. Only Burchell's and Hartmann's mountain zebra are legally huntable with proper permits.
Why Hunt Zebra?
- Spectacular, unique trophy - no two hides are identical
- Highly valuable flat skin/rug mount
- Challenging hunt requiring good stalking skills
- Beautiful animals and memorable hunting experience
- Excellent meat, similar to horse but lean and flavorful
- Often combined with other plains game on safari
Hunting Seasons & Prime Regions
Zebra hunting is available across much of southern and eastern Africa. The species hunted depends on location, with Burchell's zebra being most common and Hartmann's mountain zebra restricted to Namibia.
South Africa
Season: Year-round (April-October optimal)
Species: Burchell's zebra
Best Areas: Limpopo, North West, Eastern Cape
Notes: Most accessible destination with excellent trophy quality. Zebra have been reintroduced to many areas including Eastern Cape.
Namibia
Season: Year-round (May-October optimal)
Species: Burchell's & Hartmann's mountain zebra
Best Areas: Central regions, Damaraland, Khomas Highland
Notes: Only place to hunt Hartmann's mountain zebra. Mountain hunts are physically demanding in rough terrain.
Zimbabwe
Season: April-October
Species: Burchell's zebra
Best Areas: Lowveld conservancies, Save Valley
Notes: Good populations in hunting areas. Often combined with other plains game and dangerous game safaris.
Tanzania
Season: July-December
Species: Burchell's zebra
Best Areas: Selous, various game reserves
Notes: Large zebra populations in wild hunting blocks. Premium destination with authentic safari experience.
Seasonal Considerations
| Season | Conditions | Hunting Implications |
|---|---|---|
| April-June (Early Dry) | Grass drying, good visibility | Zebra in prime condition, hide quality excellent |
| July-August (Peak Dry) | Minimal vegetation, water-focused | Animals concentrated at water, excellent stalking |
| September-October (Late Dry) | Hot, dusty conditions | Predictable water visits, zebra may be thinner |
Hunting Techniques
Zebra are wary animals with excellent senses. They're often found in open country, making approach challenging. Successful zebra hunting requires patience, careful stalking, and precise shot placement to preserve the valuable hide.
Spot & Stalk
The classic method for zebra hunting. Use elevated positions to locate herds, then plan a stalk using available cover - termite mounds, vegetation, terrain features. Zebra are often in open areas, so patience and careful movement are essential. The black and white stripes actually provide good camouflage in certain light conditions.
Waterhole Ambush
Zebra are water-dependent, typically drinking daily. Setting up at known water sources can be highly effective, especially during dry season. This method allows careful selection of mature stallions with good hide quality. Patience is required as zebra can be cautious at water.
Vehicle Approach
Zebra are more tolerant of vehicles than humans on foot. Using a hunting vehicle to close distance, then dismounting for the final stalk on foot is common. The final approach should be at least 100-200 meters on foot to comply with fair chase principles and allow for steady shot placement.
Mountain Zebra Hunting
Hartmann's mountain zebra in Namibia require specialized techniques. The terrain is rough and steep, requiring excellent physical fitness. Hunt along well-traveled paths to water in early morning or late afternoon. During midday, they rest in shade and are difficult to locate.
Critical Shot Placement
Hide Preservation Is Critical
Unlike antelope, the zebra's value is primarily in its hide. Shot placement must balance killing efficiency with hide preservation. The ideal shot is through the shoulder to anchor the animal quickly while damaging minimal hide area. Body shots that avoid the stripes entirely are preferred when possible.
Shoulder Shot (Preferred)
Aim at the center of the shoulder, one-third up from the bottom of the body. This shot breaks the shoulder and destroys the heart/lungs, anchoring the animal quickly with minimal running. Entrance wound on shoulder impacts hide less than body shots.
Heart Shot (Alternative)
Aim in the bottom third of the body, directly behind the front leg. This shot takes the heart but may allow the animal to run a short distance. Results in minimal hide damage if well-placed.
Neck Shot (Advanced)
Preserves the most hide but is a smaller target. Aim at the center of the neck to sever the spine. Only recommended for confident marksmen at closer ranges. Instant drop when executed properly.
Avoid These Shots
Avoid gut shots at all costs - they damage valuable belly hide and result in poor meat quality. Head shots are too risky given the small target. Never shoot at running zebra.
Recommended Equipment
Zebra are remarkably tough animals, similar to wildebeest in their ability to absorb poorly placed shots. Adequate firepower with controlled-expansion bullets is essential for clean, humane kills that anchor the animal quickly.
Rifles & Calibers
The .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield (with premium 180-grain bullets) are considered minimum calibers for zebra. Many professional hunters recommend .300 magnums or larger, particularly when zebra are pursued during dangerous game hunts where larger calibers are already being carried.
Minimum Calibers
- • .308 Winchester (180gr premium)
- • .30-06 Springfield (180gr premium)
- • 7mm Remington Magnum (160-175gr)
Recommended Calibers
- • .300 Winchester Magnum (180-200gr)
- • .338 Winchester Magnum (225-250gr)
- • 9.3x62mm Mauser (286gr)
- • .375 H&H Magnum (270-300gr)
Larger Calibers Welcome
When hunting zebra on a mixed safari that includes dangerous game, there's nothing wrong with using your buffalo rifle (.375, .416, .458) with controlled-expansion bullets. These larger calibers anchor zebra quickly with minimal tracking while causing no more hide damage than smaller calibers.
Optics
Rifle Scope
Variable scope 3-9x40 or 4-12x50. Zebra hunting often involves longer shots across open plains, so higher magnification is useful. Zero at 200 yards for typical shot distances.
Recommended: Quality glass for open country
Binoculars
Quality 8x42 or 10x42 binoculars essential for locating herds and selecting mature stallions. Higher magnification (10x) helpful for judging hide quality at distance.
Recommended: 10x for open country glassing
Trophy Handling
Zebra hide care is critical - the striped hide is the primary trophy value. Proper care from the moment of harvest through processing determines final trophy quality.
- • Flat skin: Most popular mount, displays full stripe pattern
- • Shoulder mount: Dramatic wall display
- • Pedestal mount: Full body display (expensive)
- • Skull mount: Unique display of zebra teeth
- • Proper salting and drying essential for hide preservation
- • Professional skinning critical - poor cuts ruin hide value
Essential Gear
Clothing
- • Neutral earth-tone colors
- • Layered clothing for temperature
- • Sturdy hiking boots
- • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses)
- • Light jacket for early mornings
Field Gear
- • Quality binoculars
- • Shooting sticks
- • Rangefinder
- • Daypack with water
- • Sunscreen and lip balm
Personal Items
- • Camera for trophy photos
- • Hunting knife
- • First aid basics
- • Headlamp
- • Personal medications
Hunt Preparation
Zebra hunting preparation focuses on marksmanship and understanding hide quality selection. Physical demands vary - plains zebra hunts are moderate, while mountain zebra hunts require excellent fitness.
Physical Conditioning
Plains Zebra (Burchell's)
Moderate fitness required. Expect to walk 3-8 miles daily over relatively flat terrain. Vehicle-assisted stalking reduces physical demands.
- • Walking 3-5 miles several times weekly
- • Practice shooting after light exercise
- • Comfortable in hot conditions
Mountain Zebra (Hartmann's)
Excellent fitness required. Rough, steep terrain at elevation. Long stalks over broken ground. This is a demanding physical hunt.
- • Serious cardio training required
- • Hill/stair climbing essential
- • Comfortable with scrambling over rocks
Marksmanship Preparation
Zebra hunting often involves longer shots across open country. Practice at 200-300 meters with shooting sticks. Know your maximum effective range and stick to it - a poorly placed shot on zebra can result in extensive tracking and potential hide damage.
- • Zero rifle at 200 yards
- • Practice at 150-300 meters
- • Shooting sticks proficiency essential
- • Know your bullet drop at various distances
- • Practice in field conditions, not just benchrest
Trophy Selection
Unlike horned animals, zebra trophy quality is judged by hide condition. Your professional hunter will help identify suitable stallions, but understanding what to look for enhances your experience.
What to Look For
- • Clear, well-defined stripes
- • No scars, bite marks, or wounds
- • Good body condition (not thin)
- • Mature stallion (larger body size)
- • Complete mane without damage
Signs of Maturity
- • Heavier neck and chest
- • Well-developed muscle tone
- • Often found with harem of mares
- • Dominant behavior in herd
- • Battle scars (minor) can indicate dominance
Administrative Preparation
Documentation
- • Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- • Rifle import permit (outfitter arranges)
- • CITES documentation for hide export
- • Travel insurance with evacuation coverage
- • Credit cards and US dollars
Trophy Export
- • Zebra hides require CITES permits
- • Professional tanning in Africa recommended
- • Flat skins ship relatively easily
- • Budget for dipping, tanning, shipping
- • Allow 6-12 months for delivery
Professional Hunter Tips
These insights from experienced professional hunters will help you take a quality zebra trophy while preserving the valuable hide.
1. Patience Pays with Hide Selection
"Don't shoot the first zebra you see. Take time to glass the herd and identify stallions with clean, undamaged hides. A zebra with clear stripes and no scars makes a dramatically better trophy than a battle-scarred veteran. Your professional hunter can help identify prime candidates."
2. Shoot for the Shoulder, Not the Body
"The traditional shoulder shot is your best friend on zebra. It anchors the animal quickly and damages less striped hide than a body shot. Aim at the center of the shoulder, one-third up. Don't try to save hide by taking marginal shots - a wounded zebra running through thornbush damages the hide far more than a clean shoulder shot."
3. Zebra Are Tougher Than They Look
"People underestimate zebra. They're remarkably tough animals - not as bad as wildebeest but close. Don't use your light rifle 'because it's not dangerous game.' A .30-06 minimum with good bullets, preferably a .300 magnum. A poorly placed shot means a long track and potentially ruined trophy."
4. Use the Stripes to Your Advantage
"The stripes actually help with shot placement if you know how to read them. The vertical stripes on the shoulder provide excellent reference points. Count the stripes - aim at the junction where the shoulder meets the body. The pattern literally gives you an aiming grid."
5. Early Morning Is Prime Time
"Zebra are most active in cooler temperatures. Early morning finds them grazing in more open areas before they retreat to shade during midday heat. The soft morning light also makes for better trophy photos. Plan your serious hunting for the first few hours after dawn."
6. Watch the Bachelor Groups
"Young stallions pushed out of family groups form bachelor herds. These often contain animals with excellent hides - not yet battle-scarred from fighting for mares. Bachelor groups are also often less wary than family herds with protective stallions. Look for smaller groups of similar-sized males."
7. The Meat Is Excellent
"Don't let the zebra meat go to waste - it's some of the best game meat in Africa. Similar to horse but leaner and very flavorful. The camp staff will prepare it beautifully. A zebra provides substantial meat for the camp and local community."
8. Skinning Quality Matters
"Insist on quality skinning - the hide is your trophy. A careless knife cut through the stripes ruins the entire hide. Good outfitters have experienced skinners who understand zebra hide value. Watch the process if possible and ensure proper salting and care from the start."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using inadequate caliber
- Shooting first zebra without evaluating herd
- Body shots instead of shoulder shots
- Shooting at running animals
- Taking shots beyond effective range
- Neglecting trophy care after harvest
- Not budgeting for CITES permits
- Attempting mountain zebra without fitness
Ready to Hunt Zebra?
Find experienced outfitters and professional hunters who specialize in zebra safaris across South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania.