Impala

Animals

Impala

Origin:
The Impala (Aepyceros melampus) is a medium-sized antelope species found in sub-Saharan Africa. Impalas are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, from savannah to woodland. They are a common antelope species in Zimbabwe, particularly in national parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools.

Specifics:
Appearance: Impalas are slender, elegant animals with distinctive branched horns (which only males have). Their fur is short, brown to reddish, with a white belly and distinctive white stripes on their flanks.
Size: Impalas stand 75–95 cm tall at the withers and weigh 40–80 kg. Males are larger and have longer and thicker horns.
Horns: Males have beautifully serrated horns, which are used to fight for dominance in the herd. Females do not have horns.

Interesting facts:
Social behavior: Impalas live in groups that can number up to 100 individuals, with males and females usually living separately until the mating season.
Speed ​​and agility: Impalas are very fast and agile, able to run up to 80 km/h and often save themselves from predators by jumping, which can suddenly take them to safety.
High endurance: This species is able to survive in less fertile areas and can adapt to different types of terrain.
Occurrence:
Impalas are widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa and can be found in various ecosystems such as savannahs, wetlands and forests. In Zimbabwe, they are common in national parks and are often seen near water sources.

Impala hunting:
Hunting impalas is popular on safari because it is a beautiful, fast animal and is a challenge presented by its agility and jumping. Impalas are also more valuable for their horns, which are used as trophies. Hunting takes place mostly during the dry season, when these animals gather near water sources.