Topi
Damaliscus lunatus topi
Key identification features
A large antelope with a sloping back, a long narrow face and a short tail with a tuft. Both sexes have horns that expand outwards at the base and then taper upwards and backwards. Females have smaller horns and are smaller. Topis are a glossy red-brown to purplish red colour with darker greyish or bluish black markings on the upperparts of the forelegs and hips and thighs. Below the knees the legs are a reddish yellow colour. HB 150-230 cm. Wt 75-160 kg.
Habitat and social behaviour
Open and seasonally flooded grassland. Diurnal but during midday heat rests preferably in the shade. Topis live in small harems of 6-24 individuals or in small bachelor groups. Big herds of up to 1000 animals can form during the dry season.
Similar species
Coke's hartebeest (Kongoni) and Lichtenstein's hartebeest are a similar shape and size but are lighter colour and lack black markings on their thighs.
Distribution Map
Historical Distribution Map
References for historical distribution map
Photo gallery
