Hartmann’s mountain zebras (Equus zebra hartmannae) are a lesser known zebra subspecies primarily inhabiting dry and mountainous regions of Namibia. Their conservation status is considered “vulnerable” due to their small population size (approximately 9,000 mature individuals) and possible overharvesting. Very little is known about this animal’s seasonal movements or population trends, or whether individuals are able to move among scattered populations. This project, coordinated by Minnesota Zoo conservation biologists, will combine field and laboratory work to better understand Hartmann’s mountain zebras in northwestern Namibia, and identify areas that are critical to their survival. Funding from the Ulysses S. Seal Conservation Grant Program will support genetic analysis of samples collected from mountain zebras throughout northwestern Namibia. Staff champions and participants in this project are Jeff Muntifering and Tara Harris, conservation biologists.
Mountain zebra dung collection
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