Murchison Falls is home to a variety of antelope species that are commonly seen in the savannah grasslands and near the Nile River. Book a game drive to spot several of these species during your visit.
Uganda Kob
The Uganda kob is one of the most well-known antelope species in the park. 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.
Bushbuck
Another species is the bushbuck, also known as Tragelaphus scriptus. This antelope is shy and mostly lives alone, usually found in forested areas. Males have spiral horns, while females do not. Both males and females have white spots on their bodies.
Waterbuck
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.
Jackson’s Hartebeest
The Jackson’s hartebeest is another species in the park. It has a long face and a sloping back, with a light brown coat, and lives in open grasslands. Both males and females have V-shaped horns.
Oribi
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 group can be seen together.
Duiker
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.
Where to Spot Antelopes
All these antelope species can best be seen during game drives in the morning or evening. The best places to spot them include the Paraa savannah grasslands, strong for Uganda kobs and hartebeests, the Delta area, good for spotting waterbucks and bushbucks, and the woodlands and riverine forests, ideal for bushbucks and duikers.
Conservation of Antelopes in the Park
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 to protect them through anti-poaching patrols and community-based conservation programs.
Book a game drive at Murchison Falls National Park to spot Uganda kobs, waterbucks, hartebeests, and other antelope species across the park’s grasslands and forests.
