Where can I see the Thomson's Gazelle

Thomson's gazelle, scientifically known as Eudorcas thomsonii, is one of the most recognizable and common gazelles in Africa. Known for their striking speed and agility, these small antelopes are often seen gracefully bounding across the savannas of East Africa. Named after the Scottish explorer Joseph Thomson, they are a symbol of the African plains.

Thomson's gazelles are relatively small, standing about 60-90 cm (24-35 inches) at the shoulder and weighing between 15-25 kg (33-55 pounds). They are characterized by their sleek, reddish-brown coats, white underparts, and distinctive black stripes running along their flanks. Their faces feature a narrow black stripe that runs from the eye to the nose. Both males and females have horns, although the males' horns are more prominent, with a distinct lyre shape and ridges.

Primarily grazers, Thomson's gazelles feed on a variety of grasses, herbs, and shoots. During the dry season, when grass is scarce, they may also browse on leaves and bushes. Their diet is well-suited to the open savannas and grasslands they inhabit, allowing them to thrive in these environments.

Thomson's gazelles are highly social animals, often forming herds that can range from a few individuals to several hundred. These herds are usually composed of females and their young, while males either form bachelor groups or establish territories to attract females. Known for their remarkable speed, Thomson's gazelles can run up to 60 km/h (37 mph), using their agility to evade predators like cheetahs and lions. They exhibit a behaviour called "stotting" or "pronking," where they leap into the air with all four legs stiff, possibly to show strength and confuse predators.

According to the IUCN, Thomson's gazelles are classified as Least Concern (LC) due to habitat loss, hunting, and competition with livestock. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and anti-poaching measures to ensure their populations remain stable.

The best time to observe Thomson's gazelles in the wild is during the dry season, from June to October, when they gather in large numbers near water sources and open grasslands. Key locations include the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.