Impala (lat. Aepyceros Melampus) is an African artiodactyl mammal belonging to the bovid family (Bovidae). Currently, it is ranked among the group of antelopes, although earlier some scientists mistakenly attributed it to the gazelles because of the graceful constitution of the body. The second species name of the impala is the calf-footed antelope. This name is due to the black tufts of wool growing on its hind legs.
General description of the impala antelope
Impala is a very famous antelope. Compared to relatives, it is of medium size, but its horns are very large, which is a characteristic feature of this species.
Among other antelopes, the impala stands out for its powerful and agile jumps. Their length can reach up to 10 meters, and their height - up to 3. In the process of moving in a straight line, the animal is able to reach speeds of up to 80 km / h, and along a zigzag path - up to 60 km / h.
According to scientists, the impala antelope is one of the mostadaptable inhabitants of the savannah. The ability to change feeding habits according to seasonal conditions makes this species highly adaptable.
The lifespan of an impala in the wild is about 12 years and in captivity is 20.
Habitat
The black-footed antelope is endemic to the African continent. The main population is distributed in the southeastern part of the mainland, and an isolated subspecies of the impala lives in the southwest. The range covers the territory from the northeast of South Africa to Angola, southern Zaire, Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya.
Appearance and photo of the impala antelope
Aepyceros melampus has a slender graceful body 120 - 160 cm long and 75 - 95 cm high at the withers. Females of this animal weigh about 30 kg, and males - up to 65 kg. The legs of the impala are long and slender, with short hooves. On the hind limbs are purulent glands covered with tufts of black hair.
Most of the body of the impala is covered with brown hair. On the upper parts it has a brownish tint, and on the sides and legs the color is much lighter. Black markings may be present on the muzzle, the location of which depends on the subspecies. The belly, throat and chin of the antelope are completely white. The underside of the tail is the same color, and on top it is covered with light brown hair with a thin black stripe in the middle. The same markings run vertically along the buttocks.
A characteristic feature of Aepyceros melampus is huge lyre-shaped horns reaching in length90 cm. They are very thin and have strongly pronounced ridges. Horns are present exclusively in males, which is the main sign of sexual dimorphism in this species. There is also a slight difference in size (males are slightly larger).
Lifestyle and behavior
The impala antelope is an animal with 24-hour activity, peaking in the morning and evening. During the day there is an alternation of grazing and rest. About once a day, impalas go to the watering hole. During hours of intense heat, animals usually hide in the shade of bushes.
Most impalas lead a collective life. These antelopes have 3 types of groups:
- female herds with young (from 10 to 100 individuals);
- male herds - gather from young, old and weak individuals;
- mixed herds.
Strong adult males during the rutting period lead a solitary life, defining a territory for themselves, which is carefully guarded. During the mating season, the female herds passing through such an area become the harem of its owner.
The territories occupied by the groups of females and young animals are quite extensive and cover several zones controlled by different males. There are often skirmishes between the latter for the right to become the owner of one or another harem. In this case, two individuals become opposite each other and push using horns. The animal that steps back is considered the loser. During the period of the year when mating does not occur, males unite in bachelor groups.
Mixedherds are created during the migration associated with the dry season. Such groups include males and females of various ages. Upon arrival in a new territory, strong males again separate themselves and equip their possessions.
Food
Impala is a typical ruminant. The basis of its diet is grass, however, with a decrease in the number of the latter, the antelope switches to other food sources (tree bark, flowers, fruits, stems and buds of plants, seeds). This flexibility in feeding behavior allows the impala to survive drought. After the rainy season, when the savannah is covered with fresh greenery, the black-footed antelope switches to a diet consisting mainly of grass (94%).
In addition to the availability of food sources, a necessary condition for the survival of the impala is constant access to water. Drinking in these animals should occur regularly. However, with enough succulent grass, the black-footed antelope can do without a nearby source of water.
Reproduction
The breeding season for impalas begins in May, when the rainy season ends, and lasts a month. At this time, the males who have established the territory fertilize the females that are within their possession.
Pregnancy lasts from 6.5 to 7 months (194 - 200 days). Then one cub is born (very rarely - two). This usually happens in spring or autumn. On the eve of the birth, the females leave the herd, but return after a few weeks. During this time, the cub has time to grow up and get stronger.
In the team, kids are kept separategroups, approaching mothers only in case of danger or for feeding. Lactation in females persists for about 6 months, and then the cubs switch to independent feeding.
