Zebra stripes confuse biting horseflies

Zebra stripes aren't just for show; they're a clever defense against pesky horseflies. These insects, which transmit diseases and cause blood loss, are drawn to large, dark animals. However, a zebra's bold black-and-white pattern creates an optical illusion, disorienting the flies and making it incredibly difficult for them to land successfully. Researchers found flies struggled to land on striped surfaces, often missing their target entirely. This explains why zebras, despite living in open grasslands, evolved such conspicuous markings instead of camouflage. Even narrow stripes on clothing can reduce horsefly bites in humans by up to 60 percent.