Vumbura's "Chocolate" Zebras

It is believed that four "chocolate" foals have been spotted at Vumbura Plains Camp in Botswana's western Okavango Delta since 2005, all rumored to be born to the same mare who must carry a recessive gene.

This phenomenon is believed to be genetic morph where an excess of melanin results in the foals' dark, chocolate-colored coats. A rarely occurring abnormality, foals with this dark pigment can be easy targets due to their outstanding looks.

"If he makes it to adulthood it will be interesting to observe any unusual behavioral interactions that may come about as a result of his condition," says Michael Fitt of Wilderness Safaris’ Environmental Department.

Click to read more about Vumbura Plains Camp or it's sister camp Little Vumbura.

Image © Michael Fitt