Maryland Zoo Welcomes New Plains Zebra To The Herd

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is thrilled to announce the addition of a two-year-old plains zebra (Equus quagga) to the herd. Adanna, known as “Addie,” is joining female zebras Stella and Phoenix in the African Watering Hole section of the Zoo.

Addie was born at the Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park. She was transferred to The Maryland Zoo in early May, as a recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Plains Zebra Species Survival Plan (SSP) after the Zoo’s oldest zebra passed away earlier this year.

“Addie is going to be a fantastic addition to our herd,” said Erin Cantwell, mammal collection and conservation manager. “She is curious, energetic and learns quickly. Addie has already mastered a few training techniques that allow us to care for her on a more individual basis.”

There are three species of zebra: plains, mountain and Grevy’s. The plains zebra is the most common and geographically widespread. It is also known as the common zebra or Burchell’s zebra, and appears on the coat of arms of Botswana. Plains zebras roam Africa’s grasslands and venture into woodland and marshy areas as well. They are listed as a species of “least concern.”

Adult plains zebras can stand four feet tall at the shoulder and weigh 380-700 lbs, with males weighing substantially more than females. Every zebra has a unique stripe pattern — no two animals are alike! There are several theories about why zebras have stripes at all, and many suggest that the stripes are some form of camouflage. The striped patterns may make it difficult for zebra predators such as lion, leopard and cheetah to pick out a single animal from a running herd at a distance.

Initial introductions between Addie and the other zebra females are currently being conducted behind the scenes in the barn and outdoor holding area. “They are very interested in one another without being nervous, which is a great sign,” continued Cantwell. “We hope that they will quickly come together as a herd so we can introduce Addie to the Watering Hole and the public within the week.”