Why Do Zebra Stallions Kill Foals?

Observing the behavior of zebras, much like that of other animals, can sometimes be quite perplexing and even troubling. This is particularly true when witnessing acts of aggression such as infanticide among them. Despite being known for their distinctive black and white stripes and their presence in the African savannah, zebras are not immune to displaying violent behaviors within their social circles. One unsettling behavior that has been noted in zebras involves the killing of foals, often carried out by adult males within the herd. 

To comprehend why zebras partake in infanticide, it is crucial to delve into the social organization and reproductive tactics of these creatures. Zebras reside in social units called harems, typically comprising a dominant male, multiple females, and their offspring. Within these harems, the dominant male assumes a pivotal role in upholding order and asserting dominance over the group.

But what motivates male zebras to go to extremes like eliminating offspring from rivals? One potential rationale is that infanticide hastens the onset of females’ estrus cycles, enabling males to breed with them sooner and enhance their chances of fathering offspring. In various animal species, including zebras, females may postpone mating or ovulation while tending to young offspring. By removing rival offspring, male zebras could expedite reproduction processes and ensure they maximize opportunities to pass on their genetic legacy to future generations.