Abby the Zebra

Abby arrived in our lives the way wildlife often does – without much warning. She was found alone, a young foal separated from her mother, which in the wild is usually a death sentence. Without the protection of the herd, foals are vulnerable to predators and dehydration, often unable to survive more than a day or two on their own. Benjamin brought her home, and we did what we could – food, quiet, space, and time.

Zebras are social animals, so it took a while for Abby to adapt – she was understandably cautious at first, but eventually began to relax – exploring her surroundings, engaging with the other wildlife, and slowly becoming part of the rhythm of daily life on the land. These days, she’s completely at ease – and has a family of her own. 

Plains zebras are common across Zimbabwe, from Hwange to the Zambezi Valley. They move in structured herds and rely heavily on social bonds, each zebra with its own unique stripe pattern, used to recognise one another. They graze throughout the day, consuming up to 25kg of grass, and tend to follow the rains as they migrate. 

Abby may not be completely in the wild anymore, but her instincts remain: protective, alert, and surprisingly adaptable. It’s been a privilege to watch her grow, and now, to see her raise a little one of her own – right here with us.