Why Are Zebras and Ostriches Often Seen Together?

In the wild, zebras and ostriches have a special bond, and they often hang out together. The reason? Zebras have a great sense of smell and keen hearing, but they don't see very well. Ostriches, on the other hand, have terrific vision -- but their senses of smell and hearing are definitely lacking. These unlikely animal companions are most likely to steer clear of danger when they work together, using their symbiotic relationship to warn each other about approaching predators.

A friend in need is a friend indeed:

• Different species often benefit each other in nature. Cattle egrets, for example, often find food stirred up by grazing cows. In turn, the egrets will perch on a cow's back and eat the biting bugs that pester their bovine companions.
• The remora fish often attaches itself to the belly of a shark, eating parasites (and any of the shark's leftovers). The symbiotic benefit is that the remora gets to eat, while the shark remains healthy.
• Egyptian plovers and crocodiles can be best buddies. When invited by an open-mouthed croc, these little birds dine on food stuck between the ferocious reptile's teeth -- improving its dental health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do zebras and ostriches form mixed-species groups?

Zebras and ostriches often form mixed-species groups as a survival strategy. Zebras have strong eyesight, while ostriches have a keen sense of hearing and can detect predators at a distance. By staying together, they combine their senses to better detect threats, enhancing their overall chances of survival in the wild.

What benefits do zebras gain from being with ostriches?

Zebras benefit from the ostriches' exceptional hearing and height, which allows them to spot predators over the tall grass of the savannah. This early warning system gives zebras more time to flee from danger, thereby increasing their survival rate in environments where predators are common.

How do ostriches benefit from associating with zebras?

Ostriches gain an advantage from the zebras' strong visual acuity. Zebras can spot predators from a distance and their tendency to move in groups provides a larger set of eyes to watch for danger. This collaborative vigilance helps ostriches to avoid predators they might not hear, especially when they are foraging with their heads down.

Is the relationship between zebras and ostriches symbiotic?

Yes, the relationship between zebras and ostriches is considered a form of mutualism, a type of symbiosis where both species benefit. By combining their respective sensory strengths, they improve each other's ability to detect predators, which is a clear survival benefit for both zebras and ostriches in their shared habitat.

Do zebras and ostriches interact in ways other than predator detection?

While the primary interaction between zebras and ostriches is related to predator detection, they may also influence each other's movements and grazing patterns. Their coexistence can lead to shared pathways and sometimes even to the utilization of similar food and water resources, although their diets do not directly compete.

Are there other examples of mixed-species groups like zebras and ostriches in the wild?

Indeed, mixed-species groups are not uncommon in the wild. For example, antelope species may form groups with other herbivores like buffalo or birds such as oxpeckers, which eat parasites off their skin. These associations are often formed between species that do not compete for resources but can offer complementary skills for survival.