Numbers of the endangered Grevy’s zebra – the most threatened of the three zebra species – fell from around 15,000 in the late 1970s (after hunting it was banned in Kenya) to under 3,000 by 2008. Almost all the surviving population is found in Northern Kenya and Southern Ethiopia.
GZT employs a broad network of local Scouts, Ambassadors and Warriors to monitor the zebra and engage local communities. These teams provide important data on zebra distribution and behavior, as well as helping to identify the need for, and implement, interventions such as water source management and supplemental feeding. Engagement activities have enabled the development of livestock management plans that improve grazing conditions for cattle and wildlife. Scouts also visit schools and raise awareness among children with glove puppets and a specially written cartoon book.
Tusk funding has supported 10 Grevy’s Zebra Warriors, helping with vehicle maintenance and the costs of camel patrols to reach remote areas.
Grevy’s zebra face a real risk of extinction if action is not taken to protect them from mounting threats in their core range. The vital work of GZT needs continuous support to ensure this species’ survival.
Image Credits: Grevy’s Zebra Warrior © Mia Collis and Grevy Zebra © Nelson Guda