Lechwe

The lechwe, often referred to as the red lechwe or southern lechwe, is a captivating antelope species native to the wetlands of south-central Africa. These elegant animals inhabit regions such as Botswana, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Namibia, and Angola, with well-known habitats including the Okavango Delta and Kafue Flats.

Recognizable by their golden-brown coats and white underbellies, lechwe stand about 90 to 100 cm tall and weigh between 70 to 120 kg. Males are typically darker and boast impressive long, spiral-shaped horns. Their hind legs are uniquely adapted, enabling them to navigate marshy terrains effortlessly.

As herbivores, lechwe primarily graze on aquatic plants found in wetland areas. They cleverly use water as a protective barrier against predators and possess a water-repellent substance on their legs, allowing them to sprint through knee-deep water with ease. These antelopes are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and they often congregate in large herds. During the mating season, which usually occurs between November and February, these herds can number in the thousands. After a gestation period of seven to eight months, most calves are born between July and September.

There are four recognized subspecies of lechwe: the red lechwe, Kafue Flats lechwe, Roberts' lechwe (which is now extinct), and the black lechwe. Additionally, some experts classify the Upemba lechwe as a subspecies. It is important to note that while the Nile lechwe shares a similar name, it is, in fact, a separate species altogether.