Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest
- Alcelaphus buselaphus lichtensteinii
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- Trend: stable
General Information
The Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest is subspecies of hartebeest but sometimes classified as a unique species.
Description
It has a red-brown coat, which is lighter on the underbelly. The horns found on both sexes appear from the side to be shaped like the letter ‘S’, and appear from the front to be shaped like the letter ‘O’ with its upper portions missing. The horns are slightly ridged and reach over 0.5 m
Fun Facts
Lichtenstein’s hartebeest is a distinctive, high-shouldered antelope found in Zambia’s miombo woodlands, floodplains, and dambos. Named after German zoologist Martin Lichtenstein, this species is often overshadowed by its more famous relatives (like the red hartebeest) but boasts unique adaptations for survival in Zambia’s mosaic of grasslands and forests.
Ecology & Behaviour
They feed exclusively on grass and are mostly active during the day. They biggest gatherings can be seen in August and September probably when most of the calves are born. They are very territorial and can mark their territories by forming dung piles in their respective territories
Distribution & Habitat
Found in the northern parts of the country in small numbers, this light fawn coloured antelope prefers miombo woodland habitats. It can sometimes be seen on the floodplains towards the end of the dry season seeking new pastures
Diet
They feed exclusively on grass and are mostly active during the day. They biggest gatherings can be seen in August and September probably when most of the calves are born. They are very territorial and can mark their territories by forming dung piles in their respective territories
Reproduction
They feed exclusively on grass and are mostly active during the day. They biggest gatherings can be seen in August and September probably when most of the calves are born. They are very territorial and can mark their territories by forming dung piles in their respective territories
Conservation
It is listed as “Least concern” on the IUCN Red list.
