How to identify impala
- Warm tan coat with paler underparts
- Black lines on the rump form a dark M
- Adult males carry long, ridged, lyre-shaped horns
Do not identify from one clue alone.
Distance, age, sex, season and light can change an animal’s appearance. Combine several visible features and keep “not sure” as a valid answer.
Behaviour and habitat
What you may notice
Often gathers in herds
What you may notice
May snort or bark an alarm
What you may notice
Moves between grazing and browsing depending on season
Where it fits
Woodland edges, open bushveld and places close to water.
What can it be confused with?
Springbok have a strong dark flank stripe and a white facial pattern. Female impala lack horns, so use the black rump markings and overall shape.
View it responsibly
Stop well clear of the herd, switch off the engine when safe and watch for alarm behaviour rather than edging closer.