Zebra Sanctuary
At Bloomington Zebra Sanctuary, our mission is to rescue, heal, and protect zebras who have been abandoned, neglected, exploited, or displaced in captivity across the United States. We provide a safe, natural, and permanent refuge where they can live free from harm.
Zebra Stripes Could Be Pest Control
It can be tricky to pin down just why an animal’s coat looks a certain way, and scientists have a few ideas about why zebras evolved to have their trademark black and white stripes — they might act as thermoregulation, or as a unique, confusion-based kind of camouflage, to name just a couple of examples. But one of the more promising, consistent theories — although scientists are still ultimately divided — is that the striped pattern keeps dangerous flies away.
After finding that zebra stripes are more pronounced in areas of Africa with more horseflies and tsetse flies (which can transmit deadly diseases among equines), an evolutionary biologist assembled a team for a new experiment. They observed horses, some dressed up in zebra-striped coats, next to some especially tame zebras, and found that while flies hovered around all of them, they rarely landed on zebras or the striped horses compared to the horses without coats. When flies would approach zebra-striped surfaces, they would behave as if they couldn’t find a good spot to land.
🐾 It’s a Girl! 🦓🩷
We’re thrilled to announce the arrival of the first baby zebra born at our sanctuary!
Meet our newest (and stripiest) addition—a healthy foal born right here in Bloomington, Texas.
Thank you to everyone who supports our mission to protect and care for these incredible animals. Stay tuned for more updates as he finds his footing! 🍼🌿
Zebra's Interesting Facts
Why Every Zebra’s Stripes Are One of a Kind
Why Every Zebra’s Stripes Are One of a Kind
Why Every Zebra’s Stripes Are One of a Kind
Did you know no two zebras have the same stripe pattern? Just like human fingerprints, each zebra’s stripes are completely unique. Scientists believe this helps zebras recognize each other and may even confuse predators. At our Texas sanctuary, we celebrate these beautiful differences — every zebra we rescue has its own "barcode of life!"
Why Texas Is a Perfect Home for Zebras
Why Every Zebra’s Stripes Are One of a Kind
Why Every Zebra’s Stripes Are One of a Kind
With its wide-open spaces, sunny weather, and warm temperatures, Texas is a natural fit for zebras. Our sanctuary gives these amazing animals the land, freedom, and safety they need to thrive — while also giving Texans a rare opportunity to see zebras up close in a truly natural environment.
A Kick You Don't Want to Mess With
Why Every Zebra’s Stripes Are One of a Kind
From Africa to Texas — Saving Zebras in a Changing World
Zebras might look gentle, but they are fierce defenders! A zebra’s kick is powerful enough to seriously injure — or even kill — a lion. At our sanctuary, we give our zebras plenty of space to feel safe and relaxed, respecting their natural instincts while giving them room to roam.
From Africa to Texas — Saving Zebras in a Changing World
From Africa to Texas — Saving Zebras in a Changing World
From Africa to Texas — Saving Zebras in a Changing World
Across Africa, zebras are losing their natural homes to farming and development. Here in Texas, we’re giving rescued zebras a second chance. Our sanctuary provides a safe haven where these incredible animals can live out their lives in peace — and where people can learn why protecting them matters.
How We Rescue and Care for Zebras
From Africa to Texas — Saving Zebras in a Changing World
How We Rescue and Care for Zebras
Not every zebra born in captivity is lucky. Some end up in unsafe situations without proper care. That’s where we step in. Our sanctuary takes in zebras that need safe, permanent homes — providing expert veterinary care, large open pastures, and a life free from harm or exploitation.
The Power of the Herd
From Africa to Texas — Saving Zebras in a Changing World
How We Rescue and Care for Zebras
Zebras are deeply social animals that depend on their herds for survival. In the wild, they travel, graze, and protect each other as a team. That’s why at our Texas sanctuary, we allow rescued zebras to form their own social groups naturally, creating bonds that can last a lifetime.
About Zebras
Each Zebra’s Stripes Are Unique, Like a Fingerprint
No two zebras have the same pattern. Scientists believe stripes help zebras recognize each other individually.
Zebras Communicate Through Facial Expressions and Sounds
They bray, snort, and whinny, and even use their ears and tails to signal feelings — like anger, fear, or affection.
Zebras Are True Nomads
Wild zebras migrate across hundreds of miles each year in search of food and water — the longest land migration of any African mammal.
Zebras Are Born Ready
Newborn zebras can stand within six minutes of birth and start running within an hour!
The Name "Zebra" Comes from a Portuguese Word
The word zebra likely comes from the Portuguese zevra, meaning "wild ass."
Warning: The following photos contain graphic images of zebra abuse in traveling circuses and other captive environments. Viewer discretion is advised
