Earlier this week we took a look at the Gazelle and since I found them so interesting, I thought we should go back to the antelope family for today’s featured animal. Interestingly enough, we need to head back to Africa in order to catch a glimpse of the fascinating Kob. Yes, that’s right, they are simply known as the Kob, which I am sure has some profound meaning…..but I don’t know what it is. What I do know, is this antelope prefers living in wet areas such as floodplains where they have the luxury of feeding on an abundance of grass. So grab your rubber boots and lets learn more about this antelope.
Here Come the Humans
Unlike the Gazelle that has to deal with numerous predators, the Kob really only has one major threat. Humans! Over the years, hunting has decimated the population of the Kob, however, the biggest threat in my opinion is human settlement. You see, this particular antelope lives in low-lying wetlands, free of seasonal extremes and close to water sources. These same areas happen to be ideal for agriculture so I am sure you know how this ends.
A Fond Attraction
To make matters even worse is the fact that the Kob tends to form an extreme attachment with their local areas. They will often return day after day, year after year to the same watering holes. They are so attached that they often return to their favourite hangouts even after it has been developed. The outcome of these stubborn animals is typically not favourable – refer back to the “hunting has decimated the population” statement, I made earlier.
Let’s Get Ready to Rumble
The Kob tends to prefer living in smaller herds consisting of 5 to 15 individuals, although herds of 40+ has been observed. During the mating season these small herds will congregate on the breeding grounds, known as a lek, These 1000’s of Kob’s will return year after year to the same breeding grounds (see above as to why this is an issue). Once on the lek, the males will fiercely compete for a small mating spot, which is usually only held for a day or two before they have to relinquish their spot for the next male Kob. It sounds like the mating season for this antelope is very similar to a Battle Royale match in the WWE. May the best male win…..and hopefully have a spot to return to the following season.
