Impala
scientific name
aepyceros
melampus
size/weight/height
Length:
male 56" ; female 50 " • Tail:
12" • Height: male 36"; female 34" •
Weight: males 176 lbs.; female 100 lbs.
adaptations/coloration
Color:
light mahogany w/fawn flanks; hind legs have black glandular tufts;
tail/thighs vertical stripes; white underside • Horns: males only
behavior
Defense:
great leaps when alarmed; usually seek shelter in shrubbery/forests
• Forage: graze on grass; browse on leaves • Group: large
during dry season; often includes males & females; males generally
leave before breeding age; during wet season herd breaks up into groups
15-25 females ; territorial males attempt to control female groups by
entering their territory - males fight & frequently utter loud,
hoarse grunts (serious injuries rare) • Movement: active morning/afternoon;
alternately feed/rest
reproduction/lifespan
Birth:
all yr.; concentrated in rainy season • Cycle: closely related
to rainfall pattern; may be synchronized w/moon phase • Gestation:
~171 days
diet
Wild: flowers,
grass, leaves, seeds • Zoo: alfalfa hay, oats
habitat/range
open woodland
• sandy bush country • acacia savanna • C & S Africa
status
not listed
• 2 species; 1 endangered
oregon
zoo exhibit
Africa
savanna
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