The Selous zebra (Equus quagga selousi) is one of six recognized subspecies of the plains zebra (Equus quagga). It is known to inhabit Central and Southern Africa and is primarily found in Mozambique, with fragmented populations recorded in the surrounding regions.

Plains game zebras thrive in savanna ecosystems and the Selous zebra enjoys a habitat of open plains, treeless grasslands, and woodlands, and are often found near water. As a grazer, its varied herbivorous diet includes leaves, grasses, and twigs.

Zebras stay in family units known as harems, with one single dominant stallion along with mares and their offspring. Numbers in these harems reach between 6-18 animals. Bachelor groups are also formed when young male zebras leave the herd at around 1-4 years and join a bachelor group.

Mating happens throughout the year but is dependent on environmental conditions. The gestation period is approximately one year, with one foal being born to a mare. Within a couple of hours, the offspring can stand, walk, and run.

Predators of this African plains game species include lions, spotted hyenas, and Nile crocodiles.

The IUCN conservation status has not been evaluated.

AT A GLANCE

Name:
Equus quagga selousi

Male Weight:
660 pounds

Male Shoulder height:
4,9 ft

Range:
Southeastern Africa

Mating:
Throughout the Year

Gestation Period:
1 year

Life span:
9 years

Size and Appearance

With the adult male Selous zebra topping the scales at 660 pounds, this large African plains game species is the perfect target when zebra hunting in Africa. On the zebra hunting safari keep a lookout for a zebra with clean black and white stripes, without any brown shadow striping. The stripes extend down the animal’s flanks and across its entire body, including its legs and hooves. Legs are stocky and muscular. Their tails are roughly 18-22 inches, with a tuft of fur on the end and also striped.

Hunting Methods

Hunting methods for the Selous zebra include a walk-and-stalk or spot-and-stalk, while taking into consideration that they are extremely vigilant, with good eyesight. Ambushing this species while they are drinking at a waterhole that they frequent is another option.

Challenges & Rewards

The reward of hunting this striking African plains game species is its iconic black and white striped hide that makes the perfect addition to any trophy room. The Selous zebra, as with the other subspecies, is extremely difficult to approach undetected, making the stalk a challenge for hunters. Moving within close family groups, their keen eyesight and vigilance in searching for danger and threats allow them to spot danger and alert the rest of the herd.

Rifles & Requirements

When zebra hunting in Africa, it’s important to remember that these are tough animals, and a medium to large caliber rifle is suggested. Popular rifles for a zebra hunting safari are 30 caliber rifles with a minimum bullet weight of 150 grain, or higher velocity rifles like the 7mm or 300 win-mag. A .375 can also work well to harvest this striking African plains game species.