Points

5

per confirmed sighting

MammalConservation status: Least ConcernCommon to spot
mammals • Bovidae

Impala.

I

Aepyceros melampus

The most abundant antelope of the lowveld and a key prey species for most large predators.

Category

mammals

Family

Bovidae

Size

0.9 m at shoulder, 40–75 kg

Points

5 pts

A closer look

Field notes for spotting, identifying and understanding impala in its natural range.

Overview

The most abundant antelope of the lowveld and a key prey species for most large predators.

How to identify it

Rich rufous coat, black 'M' marking on the rump, lyre-shaped horns on rams only.

Habitat

EltonTraits foraging-stratum classification: ground-dwelling/terrestrial (including aquatic ground-associated coding).

Diet

Mixed grazer and browser

Behaviour

—

When to look

EltonTraits activity classification: nocturnal, crepuscular, and diurnal.

Where to see it

South Africa flagSouth AfricaNamibia flagNamibiaBotswana flagBotswanaZimbabwe flagZimbabweZambia flagZambiaMozambique flagMozambiqueEswatini flagEswatiniMalawi flagMalawiAngola flagAngola
  • Kruger National ParkZA
  • Chobe National ParkBW
  • South Luangwa National ParkZM
  • Gorongosa National ParkMZ

Safety and etiquette

Observe from a vehicle or a safe distance and never feed wildlife.

Verification and sources

1500 verified species across ten Southern African countries. Spotted an error? Tell us through community guidelines.