Zebras, the captivating, striped cousins of horses, are native to Africa and instantly recognizable by their unique black and white patterns. While their striking appearance and horse-like shape might lead one to wonder if they can be ridden, the answer is a complex “yes, but you should probably reconsider.” Riding a zebra is far from the idyllic equestrian experience one might imagine, often turning into an awkward and potentially frightening encounter with a wild, scared animal.
Zebras Are Wild Animals, Not Domesticated Steeds
Unlike horses, which have been domesticated over thousands of years, zebras remain wild animals. While some have been kept in captivity, they retain their inherent wild traits and instincts. Unlike feral horses that can be tamed and trained, zebras are described as skittish, aggressive, and unpredictable. As prey animals, they are constantly on alert for predators and have evolved to defend themselves and flee at a moment’s notice. Zebras cannot be domesticated. This wild nature makes them prone to kicking and biting, and a lack of trust is inherent in any interaction.
Understanding Zebra Conformation and Temperament
Beyond their wild nature, zebras possess a different physical structure and temperament compared to horses. Their conformation is often more akin to that of a donkey, with a flatter, less robust back. They are also generally smaller, typically standing around 11 to 12 hands high, making them unsuitable for most adult riders. Finding tack, such as a saddle, that fits a zebra’s unique shape would be an exceptionally difficult, if not impossible, task.
Furthermore, zebras are known for their volatile personalities. Described as “riding a coiled spring,” their actions are driven by instinct rather than thought. Unlike horses, which may consider a situation before reacting, zebras tend to act first and think later. This inherent wariness, stemming from their prey animal status, means they can perceive a rider as a predator, leading to feelings of being trapped and threatened. This can result in aggressive behavior and potential injury.
The History and Challenges of Training Zebras
Throughout history, a few individuals have attempted to train zebras, driven by a desire to challenge the notion that it’s impossible. One notable figure was Walter Rothschild, an English zoologist born in 1868. Despite his family’s inclinations towards finance, Rothschild pursued his passion for animals. He famously drove a carriage pulled by zebras to Buckingham Palace in 1895 and was often seen around London in a single zebra-drawn carriage.
More recently, Gary Witheford, a UK-based horse trainer, took on the challenge of taming zebras. After boasting about his ability to train them, he successfully tamed two zebras and even allowed a child jockey to ride them. He subsequently acquired more zebras, indicating a personal fulfillment derived from this difficult undertaking. However, the success rate for training zebras remains low, and the inherent wildness means there’s no guarantee they won’t react unpredictably.
For those considering training a zebra, it’s important to recognize that the support and resources available for horse training are vastly superior. With zebras, you may find yourself entirely on your own. It is often more practical and rewarding to direct your efforts towards training a horse.
Alternative Ways to Appreciate Zebras
If you admire zebras, there are many ways to appreciate these animals without the risks associated with riding them. Zoos and safari parks offer opportunities to observe them in controlled environments. For the ultimate experience, visiting Africa to see zebras in their natural habitat is unparalleled. While it might be possible to keep a zebra as a pet, it’s crucial to understand they may not be cuddly companions and could exhibit unpredictable behaviors, such as attempting to kick. Ultimately, zebras are best admired and respected as the magnificent wild animals they are.
