The Somali Wild Ass is considered the ancestral form of all domestic species. Of the three subspecies, only the Somali Wild Ass survived. They are one of the rarest animals in the world. They are almost extinct in the wild. The worldwide population is estimated to only total about 400 animals.
The Somali Wild Ass has characteristic zebra-like striped legs. As extremely frugal animals, they have adapted perfectly to life in the desert. When looking for food, they are not fussy. They rarely search for water.