Antelopes in Murchison Falls National Park
Ugandan Kob | Oribi | Jackson’s Hartebeest | Defassa Waterbuck
Antelopes in Murchison Falls. Murchison Falls National Park, known for its impressive collection of larger mammals like elephants, lions, and giraffes, also features a vibrant and varied population of antelope species. Globally, there are roughly 91 acknowledged antelope species, showcasing an admirable diversity in size, shape, and habitat preferences. These elegant animals are defined by their long and slender legs, adaptations that allow them to reach impressive speeds and agility, aiding them in avoiding predators within their natural habitats.
In Uganda in particular, the range of antelope species is exceptionally remarkable, with 29 different species documented throughout the nation. Many of these species flourish in the expansive landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park, where the diverse habitats—ranging from open grasslands to thick woodlands—offer optimal living conditions.
Various Species of Antelopes in Murchison Falls National Park
Ugandan Kob
The Ugandan kob ranks among the most prevalent antelope species in Murchison, and it is classified as a subspecies of the kob. Both the Ugandan kob and the grey-crowned crane are featured on the national coat of arms. At first glance, one might confuse the Ugandan kob with an impala; however, it is larger and more robust. Males usually weigh about 94 kg, while females have an average weight of around 63 kg. The shoulder height of females ranges from 82 to 92 cm, while males are significantly larger, standing between 90 and 100 cm.
As herbivores, Ugandan kobs primarily feed on grasses and reeds. The numerous Ugandan kobs present in Murchison Falls National Park serve as prey for the area’s lions.
Oribi
The oribi is among the smallest antelopes in Murchison, resembling a gazelle with its slender physique. This antelope weighs between 12 and 22 kg and stands at a height of 50 to 67 cm at the shoulder. Only the males have horns, and the females are generally larger than the males. Their slender, straight horns measure between 8 and 18 cm long.
You’re likely to see an oribi during a game drive, as they are active throughout the day. Look for the distinctive white fur stripe that runs above their eyes. A significant portion of an oribi’s diet, up to 90%, consists of grasses, and they often frequent mineral licks.
Jackson’s Hartebeest
The Jackson’s hartebeest is a large antelope that weighs between 100 and 200 kilograms and stands just over a meter at the shoulder. It can be identified by its prominent forehead and uniquely shaped horns that curve backward, sometimes surpassing 40 cm in length. This social hartebeest typically forms herds ranging from 30 to 200 individuals. It is a hybrid between the Lelwel and Coke’s hartebeests, which are two different subspecies. Despite their considerable size, Jackson’s hartebeests are not particularly aggressive. They remain highly alert, and while they graze, one member of the herd maintains a watchful lookout.
Defassa Waterbuck
This large antelope leads a relatively relaxed lifestyle, with males weighing up to 262 kg and reaching 127 cm in height at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, with weights up to 214 kg and measuring 119 cm at the shoulder. Defassa waterbucks tend to group in numbers ranging from six to thirty. They prefer to be near water sources, as they cannot endure dehydration during the hotter months.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies the Defassa waterbuck as nearly endangered. Although more than 60% of these antelopes inhabit protected areas like Murchison Falls National Park, their population there has experienced a recent decline.
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