© Johann Du Toit
The topi is a medium-sized antelope with a striking reddish-brown to purplish-red coat that is glossy, even iridescent in bright sunlight. Distinct black patches appear on the face, the upper forelegs and on the hips and thighs. To complete its singular appearance, the topi’s yellowish-tan legs look like they are encased in stockings. They shoulder size can grow up to 4 ½ feet and weight up to 300 pounds.
Their favorite habitat are flood plains, but they are sometimes found in dry areas of open savanna and park woodland, taking to the shade during the heat of the day. They prefer flat lowlands, and can go without water for long periods of time only if they have access to green pastures.
Females reach maturity at about 1 1/2 years, males at about 3 years. Between 4 and 5 years of age, males begin to fight over territories, but only the strongest win them. Mating takes place in the territories. Infant topis spend their first 3 to 12 days lying out and about 3 months start growing horns and acquiring adult coloring.
Calving normally occurs once a year and is timed for periods when grass supplies are plentiful. Nonetheless topis are almost as flexible in their reproduction as they are in their social organization. If food supplies are particularly good, topis will conceive at different times of the year, with shorter intervals between calves.
The life span of topis is 15 years.
