Description
The lesser kudu (Ammelaphus imberbis) is a stunning spiral-horned antelope native to the dry lowlands and acacia thickets of East Africa. It is most active during twilight and night hours, using its cryptic striping and agility to evade predators like leopards. Unlike many antelope species, lesser kudus tend to be elusive and solitary, which makes sightings in the wild particularly rare. Their role in the ecosystem includes seed dispersion and maintaining plant diversity through selective browsing.
-
Scientific Name: Ammelaphus imberbis
-
Native Range: Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia
-
Diet: Leaves, twigs, fruits, and flowers
-
Behavior: Shy, primarily nocturnal, rarely found in large groups
-
Conservation Note: Populations are stable but fragmented due to habitat loss