Rutting Season

Snorting, chasing, fighting and mating. These are all elements of the impala rutting season happening at the moment. It causes for some entertaining viewing of the most common large animal in the Kruger. They are so common (we are talking figures of about 100 000 individuals) that most people become very blasé about them and drive past them even though they can be very entertaining. They are very vocal this time of the year and will be calling, snorting and roaring day and night. It sounds so formidable that some people might think they are hearing some kind of predator. Actually, it’s all just to chase away potential male suitors and to ensure a territory, and the females. If a strong male does not back down, fighting will ensue. This can be ferocious and although the loser will normally run away, with the victor hot on his heels, it can potentially be fatal. The dominant male can be so busy fighting and chasing off other males, herding and mating with the females, that he does not spend enough time feeding and keeping up his condition. Unfortunately it does mean that he will loose his top position during the rutting season and will allow for several other males to ensure they can pass on their genes as well. The best part of the rutting season is that 6,5 months from now (by the end of November), the bush will be alive with young impalas.

 

Simon Vegter

Wild Wings Safaris

www.wild-wings.co.za

 

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