Why Zebras Have Stripes

So just before Christmas the theory of why Zebras have stripes was finally settled (hopefully anyway). Scientists having been using computer models to simulate Zebras movement, the model discovered that the Zebras stripes cause optical illusions when the animals are moving. This helps confuse their predators and therefore helping to keep them safe. Although the stripes have thought to have many theories this is the first one that has been effectively confirmed. The scientists believe that the stripes may lead predators and insects to think the animals are moving in a different direction to where they are really going.

It really does give a new meaning to the idea racing stripes if your opponent thinks you're going the other way now doesn't it!

For a little more detail..
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/25260311