Have you ever driven on I-680 North and thought you caught a glimpse of a zebra on the side of the road? It turns out that you’re not hallucinating. This infamous zebra is very real, along with a few camels, an alpaca, llamas, and numerous other exotic animals.

     All of them belong to the Seeno family, who own the land that overlooks the freeway and have dedicated their hill to housing these exotic animals, including the infamous zebra. While many residents in Danville have grown accustomed to seeing the wacky assortment of animals, many still wonder why they are there.

     “People ask if we ride the animals or if they can pet them,” says Mindy Seeno. “The answer is no to both. They are livestock, not pets.”

     Despite these animals being mainly for agricultural purposes, they are still loved by the community and come as a fun surprise to those who spot them. For those who regularly drive past the hill, spotting the zebra and its companions has become a tradition.

     “It’s really cool to see them when you’re driving,” said Madison Albert, a Danville resident who is also a junior at Monte Vista. “It’s really unexpected.”

     Over the years, they have become an iconic part of the town, and a surprise for those passing through. Beyond being a treat for those who drive by, this unique assortment of wildlife have become local legends in the East Bay.

     “The zebras on the side of the road have always been a highlight of driving on the freeway,” said Callie Rassmuessen, another junior at Monte Vista, . “They’re a captivating scene as you don’t see zebra’s everywhere in Danville.”

     Ultimately, whether you see these animals as a fun roadside surprise or a beloved landmark of the area, the zebra and its friends have made their mark on Danville. While their presence comes as a little bit of a shock, these animals have become a unique and cherished part of the East Bay.