Thompson's gazelles in Masai Mara National Park Kenya

Thomson's gazelle is one of the most iconic species of the Masai Mara National Park in Kenya. This small antelope is a common sight in the park, and is well-known for its distinctive markings and graceful movements.

Thomson's gazelle is a small antelope that stands up to 1.2 metres tall at the shoulder and weighs between 15 and 20kg. It has a reddish-brown coat with white stripes down its back and sides, and its legs and neck are marked with black and white stripes. The males have horns which can reach up to 25cm in length.

Thomson's gazelles are found in many parts of the Masai Mara National Park, and they are well-adapted to the dry grasslands and open woodlands of the area. They feed mainly on grasses, but they also eat leaves, fruits and flowers. Thomson's gazelles are usually seen in small herds of up to 20 individuals, although some herds can be much larger.

Thomson's gazelles are very fast runners, and they can reach speeds of up to 80km/h when being chased by predators such as lions and cheetahs. They also have a characteristic bounding gait which is used to confuse predators and escape danger.

The Masai Mara National Park is an important habitat for Thomson's gazelles, and the species is protected by law in the park. This species is also found in other parts of East Africa, but the Masai Mara provides an important refuge for the species.

Thomson's gazelles are an iconic species of the Masai Mara National Park, and they are an important part of the park's biodiversity. With the right conservation measures in place, the future of these beautiful creatures is secure.

Photo of Thompsons Gazelles in Kenya

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