Zebras exhibited preventative behaviour, such as running away and tail swishing at a far higher rate than horses. The research also directly observed zebra and horse behaviour in response to biting flies. Horse flies are a widespread problem for domestic animals so mitigating techniques, such as the development of anti-fly wear designed to resemble zebra stripes, may, from this research, be an interesting outcome for animal health and wellbeing. Consequently, far fewer successful landings were experienced by zebras compared to horses." Professor Tim Caro, Honorary Research Fellow from the University of Bristol's School of Biological Sciences, said: "Horse flies just seem to fly over zebra stripes or bump into them, but this didn't happen with horses. However, video analyses revealed differences in approach speed, with horse flies failing to slow down on approach to zebras, which is essential for a successful landing. Their new study has shown that stripes don't deter horse flies from a distance, with both zebras and domestic horses experiencing the same rate of circling from the flies. ![]() Martin How and colleagues have been investigating the behaviours of tabanid horse flies around captive zebras and domestic horses at a livery in North Somerset, using video analysis techniques. Now, researchers from the University of Bristol and UC Davis, California, have added evidence to the theory that the primary purpose of zebras' stripes is for avoiding blood-sucking parasites. Many theories have been proposed, including avoiding predators, better heat regulation and a social function, yet there is still no agreement between scientists. The evolution of the zebra's two-tone coat has intrigued scientists for over 150 years.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |