Why do some animals have patterns in their fur?

Variations in coat color and pattern are natural adaptations for wild animals for various reasons; foremost, camouflage for predator and prey animals alike. In animals such as the zebra, which does not really blend into its habitat, their bold contrast of color with stripes is thought to make it more difficult for predators to single out a target when amongst the herd.

However, there are examples of animals that have very bright coloring for other reasons. Countless male birds come to mind, because colorful plumage is crucial in their attempts to attract mates. And in domestic animals, many have been bred for certain colors and coat variations (or mutations) that the (human) breeders try to change or preserve.