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The surprising reason zebras have stripes - Cella Wright

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1,285 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Zebras belong to the same equine family as horses and donkeys. After their lineage entered Africa, they evolved into three zebra species, lived in social herds, grazed on grasses, and evaded fierce predators. One mystery that has perplexed prominent scientists for decades is the matter of their coats: why are they striped? Cella Wright digs into the common theories about the unique patterning.

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Script Writer Cella Wright
  • Director Sharon Colman
  • Narrator Addison Anderson
  • Composer Jarrett Farkas
  • Sound Designer Weston Fonger, Sound Goods
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Produced by Abdallah Ewis
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Script Producer Cella Wright
  • Fact-Checker Charles Wallace
  • Expert Consultant Tim Caro

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