Murchison Falls is home to a variety of antelope species that are commonly seen in the savannah grasslands and near the Nile River. The Uganda kob is one of the most well-known antelope species. It is recognized by its reddish-brown coat and lyre-shaped horns. These animals are often seen in herds grazing in the savannah. The Uganda kob is a national symbol and appears on the coat of arms of Uganda.
Another species is the bushbuck, also known as Tragelaphus scriptus. This antelope is shy and mostly lives alone. It is usually found in forested areas. Males have spiral horns, while females do not. Both males and females have white spots on their bodies.
Also found in the park is the waterbuck, scientifically known as Kobus ellipsiprymnus. These large antelopes have shaggy coats and a white ring around their rump. They live mostly near water sources and are seen in small groups. Only the males have long, curved horns, while females do not have horns.
The Jackson’s hartebeest is another species in the park. It has a long face and a sloping back. These animals are light brown in color and live in open grasslands. Both males and females have V-shaped horns.
The Oribi is a small, slender antelope with a reddish-brown coat and short, straight horns. They usually move in pairs, though sometimes a small family can be seen.
The duiker is also found in Murchison Falls. It is small, shy, and tends to hide in bushes when threatened. Only the males have short, pointed horns.
All these antelope species can best be seen during game drives in the morning or evening.
The best places to spot them include:
- Paraa savannah grasslands – great for seeing Uganda kobs and hartebeests
- Delta area – good for spotting waterbucks and bushbucks
- Woodlands and riverine forests – ideal for bushbucks and duikers
Although antelopes in Murchison Falls are not currently listed as endangered, they face threats such as poaching, loss of habitat, and conflict with humans. The Uganda Wildlife Authority, along with other partners, is working hard to protect them through anti-poaching patrols and community-based conservation programs.
Murchison Falls National Park is a great place for those interested in antelopes and offers memorable wildlife experiences.
