Discover the fascinating world of Impalas, and enjoy sighting them on a safari in Zimbabwe.  These are beautiful and agile African antelopes known for their reddish-brown coat and impressive horns. They are herbivores and have a particular preference for new and tender foliage, but can also resort to digging for roots and tubers when food is scarce.

Physical Characteristics

Impalas are medium-sized antelopes that stand about 75-95 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh between 40-70 kg. They have a reddish-brown coat with a white underbelly, and males have impressive lyre-shaped horns that can grow up to 90 cm long. Their coat is not only beautiful but also serves as camouflage in their natural habitat.

Impalas are agile and capable of jumping up to 3 meters in the air, which helps them escape from predators. They are also known for their remarkable speed, capable of running at speeds up to 80 km/h when threatened. This speed and agility make them a challenging prey for carnivorous predators such as lions and leopards.

Diet and Feeding Habits

Impalas are herbivores and primarily feed on leaves, flowers, and fruits of various trees and bushes. They are selective feeders and have a particular preference for new and tender foliage. In the dry season, they also consume woody plant parts such as stems and bark, and can even resort to digging for roots and tubers when food is scarce.

Impalas have a unique digestive system that allows them to extract more nutrients from their food. They have a four-chambered stomach, which helps them break down tough plant material and extract nutrients more efficiently.

Behavior and Habitat

Impalas are social animals and live in herds of up to 100 individuals. The herds are usually led by a dominant male, and females and young males make up the rest of the group. These herds are active during daylight hours and rest in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Impalas are found in savannas and woodlands throughout sub-Saharan Africa, where they have adapted to a variety of habitats. They are particularly abundant in areas with a mix of grassland and woodland, where they can find both food and cover.

Impalas are fascinating animals that have adapted to life on the African savanna. Their physical characteristics, diet, and behavior make them unique and interesting to study. Despite facing danger from carnivorous predators, these agile antelopes have developed remarkable speed and agility to escape from their predators. Their beauty and grace make them a joy to watch in their natural habitat. Enjoy the animals also as Shona sculpture during your visit to Zimbabwe. Fuse your holidays with art.