Drought poses danger to threatened Grevy's zebra

Drought in most parts of the country is posing an existential threat to the endangered Grevy's zebras, which are mostly found in Kenya, according to a global wildlife conservation group.

James Isiche, Africa Director of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), says almost all of the world's remaining Grevy zebras live in the arid landscape of Northern Kenya.

However, he claims that the area has experienced the worst drought in 40 years, posing a threat to the zebra breeding population due to a lack of water and pasture.

The largest wild equid is the long-legged endangered Grevy's zebra.

They are also taller, have larger ears, and their stripes are narrower than plains zebras. They are the zebras' largest species. It is distinguished by its distinctive stripes, which are as unique as human fingerprints.

The Grevy's are more closely related to wild asses than horses, whereas plains zebras are more closely related to horses.

"The lands have become parched. Water sources are depleting. And the human communities that coexist with the zebras are struggling to survive as a result of the climate disaster," Isiche said.

He went on to say that without intensive monitoring and support, we might lose these majestic creatures forever.

"We are making an urgent plea for help to save them. Make a donation to Mission: Animal Rescue! Drive to help save Grevy's zebras and other endangered animals.

"Thanks to a generous matching gift challenge from David Rio, the global chai tea company, every dollar you give will have a double impact, up to $206,000," he said.

IFAW is working with Grevy's Zebra Trust (GZT) to ensure the zebra's survival on multiple fronts.

These include situation monitoring, in which GZT staff keep track of the zebras' health as well as the availability of critical resources such as food and water.

"They are intervening if necessary to ensure the animals can withstand the effects of drought and disease. Supplemental feeding is also available, and with over a decade of experience feeding Grevy's zebras, GZT is working to establish more feeding sites throughout Northern Kenya.

"Its teams work around the clock to ensure fresh, contaminated hay is provided to the zebras, laying it out in a long line so the animals don't have to compete for food," Isiche said.

During drought conditions, access to water becomes a major challenge, particularly for nursing mother zebras.

"GZT employs water monitors to dig shallow wells for wildlife in dry riverbeds and works with community members to assist them in providing water for both livestock and zebras," Isiche added.

Isiche said as climate change worsens, causing more extreme weather events that endanger vulnerable wildlife, responses must be strengthened.