Saturday, April 23, 2011

The A - Z April Challenge: T...and Camera Critters

I'm afraid I've been unwell for a few days, and am remiss in returning visits. I appreciate the kind comments and will pop over to see each of you  soon. In the meantime, here is today's brief offering...
.
T is for Topi
.
 The Topi is a handsome antelope that inhabits the flood plains and open savannahs of East Africa from southern Sudan to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. Though smaller in stature than his cousin the Hartebeest, there is a definite resemblance between the two.
.
Topis have an amazing glossy coat that seems iridescent in the sunlight. They are a rich reddish-brown colour, mixed with patches of purple. Dark masks mark their faces, and their pale lower legs resemble stockings.
.
Among the most socially advanced of the antelopes, Topis live in herds of 15 to 20, with both males and females defending their territory. They are in greatest danger from lions, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas.
.
The gregarious Topi spends a good part of his life alongside zebras, ostriches, and other antelopes. Although not in any immediate threat of extinction, populations are scattered and isolated as a result of human encroachment and hunting.
.
.
For more A - Z posts, be sure to pop by Arlee Bird's site and see what others have done with the letter T...
.
http://www.tossingitout.blogspot.com/2011/01/very-special-and-exciting
.
I am also linking to Misty Mawn's Camera Critters...do stop by and have a look at the super entries...
.
.http://camera-critters.blogspot.com/

12 comments:

Katy Cameron said...

Oh boo to not feeling well! Hope you feel 100% very soon

Kay L. Davies said...

So sorry you've not been well, Lynette. I can certainly sympathize.
Thank you for taking time to share this fascinating animal (new to me) with us today. A very interesting post, indeed.
I hope you're well soon.
Luv, K

Kay, Alberta, Canada
An Unfittie's Guide to Adventurous Travel

Iowa Gardening Woman said...

What a beautiful color that antelope is!

Sherry Blue Sky said...

It is fascinating, the various types of antelopes. Sorry you have been ill. I hope you are on the mend!

Chubskulit Rose said...

Beautiful shots.

Here's my critters post. Have a nice Easter celebration.

Debra She Who Seeks said...

Beautiful beast, the Topi. Feel better soon!

J.Rylie.C said...

So pretty!
Please come and see my critters, thanks!

EJ said...

Beautiful critter!

Do you want to see how Jack Russel Terriers gets excited? Have a blessed Easter!

Anonymous said...

Hope you feel better soon!

What gorgeous shots of the topi.

Deborah said...

I've been away and missed a few, but I'll be scrolling back now to see your wonderful pictures!
I do hope you're feeling better x

eileeninmd said...

Fantastic photos and what a neat looking critter.

adrielleroyale said...

What incredible coats!!! Beautiful :)