Tunde FolawiyoAfrican grassland animals | Tunde Folawiyo
The term ‘grassland’ refers to an open landscape, which is free from dense trees and bushes. In Africa, grasslands are usually populated by herds of mammals, who come here to graze and drink water. Examples of animals which can be found in this type of area are the zebra, and the giraffe, two creatures which virtually everyone, including Tunde Folawiyo, will be familiar with.
The former is best known for its striking appearance, consisting of a white body covered in irregular black stripes. Much like a human’s fingerprints, each zebra’s stripes are unique, although an individual’s pattern will often bear a resemblance to its herds’ general pattern. Zoologists believe that the evolutionary function of these stripes is to visually disorientate predators, and thus provide the zebra with the opportunity to flee. Their coats are also used to maintain a stable body temperature, even during times of extremes warmth; their shiny hair dissipates about two-thirds of all incoming heat, enabling zebras to withstand the powerful rays of the African sun.
Zebras are highly sociable, spending their days grooming and grazing with their herd. Within each herd however, are families, which consist of a one male, multiple females, and their foals. Their primary predators are hyenas and lions, although they are also occasionally hunted by cheetahs and leopards. When under threat, the herd works as a unit to protect itself, forming a circle and biting approaching predators. Their sleeping patterns are also dictated by the protection of the herd; a number of zebras will usually stay awake, watching out for possible threats, whilst the others rest.
Like the zebra, the giraffe has dark-coloured sections of hair on its body. This serves as a type of camouflage, hiding the animals from predators. In addition to this, scientists have theorised that the skin beneath these dark splotches acts as a ‘window’, which allows for better thermoregulation.
Giraffes are also distinguished by their great height; as the tallest mammals in the world, they often stand five metres above the ground. This length means that they can reach the leaves and shrubs which other animals cannot, thus ensuring that they always have a steady supply of food. This is important, as giraffes spend most of their days eating, consuming an average of 45kgs over the course of a 24 hour period. Those with an interest in wildlife, such as Tunde Folawiyo, might be surprised to know that these large, rather awkward-looking creatures can actually run surprisingly fast, with an average speed of about 35 miles per hour.
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