Zebra species each have their own individual pattern of stripes. The stripe pattern helps to recognize subspecies. The colour also helps to protect them from predators. Within a herd, the outline of an individual zebra is invisible, making it difficult to target a single animal.
Zebras have great eyesight, and can spot enemies from afar. If they are in danger, they gallop away. They can run up to 60 km/h for short distances. If they get caught, zebras are by no means defenseless. They defend themselves by biting and kicking with their hard hooves.