Oribi in Pendjari National Park

The Oribi (Ourebia ourebi) is a small, slender antelope occurring throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa. Their typical habitats include open grasslands or thinly bushed areas with access to water. The animals are absent from dense forests, steep hills, and deserts. They feed mainly on grass, but also browse on leaves and young shoots during the dry season. Commonly, Oribi enter recently burnt areas to eat the fresh grass. Generally, they live in small groups, often they can be found in pairs. Both genders look similar, but only males grow short, straight horns. I have photographed these beautiful antelopes in Pendjari National Park, Benin, during a visit in February 2012 – together with other antelopes, such as Kob (Kobus kob) and Bohol Reedbucks (Redunca redunca). Fortunately (for the photographer), Oribi tend to stand still once spotted, relying on their camouflage. This, however, is a poor defense against poachers who hunt for bush-meat or their natural enemies such as lions, leopards, caracals, hyenas, wild dogs, and jackals.

female Oribi

Oribi

male Oribi at water hole