Zebras are sturdy, spirited animals that are a study in contrasts: willful and playful, social and standoffish, resilient and vulnerable. Their life in a herd can be complex, yet they also find safety in numbers. They are prey for predators, but they are by no means shrinking violets when it comes to defending themselves. Zebras are equids, members of the horse family. They have excellent hearing and eyesight and can run at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. They also have a powerful kick that can cause serious injury to a predator, like a lion, a hyena, or an African wild dog. Usually, the stallion sounds the alarm if danger is spotted and stays at the back of the group to defend against predators if necessary.