Where does the springbok live?
The springbok is an antelope found mainly in south and south-western Africa, in dry areas: from north-western South Africa, through the Kalahari Desert, into Namibia and Botswana. In earlier times, millions of migrating springbok formed herds hundreds of kilometres long, which is rarely seen nowadays. Mixed-sex herds range from 3 to 180 individuals. It is a very important symbol in South Africa.
What does the springbok eat?
Springbok are primarily browsers: they feed on shrubs and young succulents, and can survive without drinking water through the dry season. They are active mainly at dawn and dusk. A feature peculiar but not unique to them is pronking: multiple leaps into the air in a stiff-legged posture, with the back bowed and the white rump flap lifted, up to 2 m above the ground.
Is the springbok endangered?
No: the IUCN lists it as Least Concern, with no major threats to the long-term survival of the species. The population is estimated at 2,000,000 to 2,500,000 animals across southern Africa. Its predators include cheetahs, caracals, hyenas, leopards, lions and African wild dogs. It weighs 27 to 42 kg and stands 71 to 86 cm at the shoulder.
