Scientists painted cows black with white stripes to drive away pests. It turns out the zebra pattern is a natural repellent

Japanese researchers painted six Japanese Black cattle with different patterns and compared fly bites and defensive behavior.

Cows with black-and-white zebra stripes attracted fewer flies and showed less discomfort than black or unpainted cows.

The approach could become an alternative to insecticides in livestock farming.

Broader testing and a more durable solution are still needed.