Red Lechwe

Kobus leche

Distribution and Habitat: Lechwe are found in the southernmost areas of African savannas. The population is most concentrated in Zambia, but small populations can be found in Angola and Botswana. They prefer swampy areas, as they have access to food and water.

Diet: They feed mainly on herbs in the meadows. Lechwe feed in water as protection against predators.

Reproduction: Lechwe tend to breed between November and February. The gestation period is seven to eight months and most calves are born between July and September. Weaning takes place between five and six months of age.

Behaviour: Males and females remain separated most of the year. Although there is a dominant male in each group of females at the time of reproduction. Lechwe become more active before dawn until dusk.

Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)

Classification

Class: Mammalia

Order: Artiodactyla

Family: Bovidae

Dimensions: 90 cm – 1.1 m height (shoulders)

Weight: 60 kg -120 kg

Lifespan: 15 years in the Wild

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