Global News - April 2008

< Back to Global News

GPS helps scientists monitor endangered zebras

Fri 25 April 2008 14:00 UK — Africa,Ungulates

Researchers from the US have revealed that they have used global positioning systems (GPS) to successfully learn more about a very rare species of zebra.

In an interview with CNN, Princeton University academic Daniel Rubenstein explained that the GPS systems meant his team had been able to monitor the feeding habits of rare Grevy's zebras.

Only around 2,000 of these creatures survive in the wild and the new research threw light on how the animals balanced grazing and avoiding predators such as lions.

It was discovered that the zebras fed on open plains during the day, while lions rested in the shade of wooded areas.

At night, the zebras move to the wooded areas just as the lions leave to head to the plains to hunt. When the zebras return to the exposed areas, the GPS showed they moved more quickly and unpredictably in order to avoid the predators.

Mr Rubenstein explained to CNN: "By using this remote sensing ability, we've been able to show the zebras change behaviour markedly when they use the plains at night to minimize the risk of being preyed upon by lions."

The GPS system also meant the team could analyse social networks among the zebras.

They discovered that communities of Grevy's zebras are less close-knit than those of the plains zebras, meaning they are more at risk from predators.

Help IAR save animals from suffering around the world.

News brought to you by International Animal Rescue, saving animals from suffering around the world.

< Back to Global News   |   Read IAR News

Read IAR News >