World Image issue 30 March 2016_1

The Hartebeest and Sable survive well in the
Kalahari and are often seen with herds of Gemsbok.
Herds can number up to about 800.
Springbok grazing the dune grasses between the
Auob and Nossob Rivers
The young black mane male lion spent some time
observing an Eland move from a waterhole. It then
started to follow the Eland very slowly but with
obvious determination.
Springbok are able to regulate their lambing periods
to coincide with favourable food conditions. The
white rump is thought to reflect heat to help the
animal sustain the high temperatures.
Springbok depend on collective security of the herd
and fleetness for survival. The ballet like pronking
[2 metres high] also confuses a predator.
Group pronking makes it difficult for a predator to
select one animal as its prey.
Eventually after a short hard chase the lion bought
its prey down.
Springbok at a waterhole on the Auob River.
Jackal and Springbok share water on the Nossob
River.
Stotting is exhibited by springbok in an excited state
when alarmed. It is a powerful communication
warning to other animals of the herd about danger.
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