The plains zebra (Equus quagga) is an herbivorous mammal. This species can travel long distances and is often the first to colonize a pristine pasture area. Four hypotheses have prevailed for a long time to explain zebra stripes: they would be a camouflage or disrupt the vision of predators by their strong contrast when zebras are moving, especially in the dark. They would repel insects and other external parasites; they would facilitate thermoregulation; or they would be useful for the recognition of individuals among themselves.