Asked by: Becca Johnson, Durham
This mystery has ‘finally’ been solved many times over the years, with explanations ranging from camouflage to a deterrent against parasites. The most compelling evidence – published in January 2015 by scientists in the US – suggests the main benefit comes from the contrasting way that black and white stripes absorb heat. Black gets hotter than white, creating cooling swirls of airflow over the zebra’s skin.
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.
