Lemukisa
A young impala looks up, alerted by my presence.
Lemukisa means “caution” in Tsonga.
We were moving quickly, following the fresh spoor of an adult rhino, when we came across a small herd of impala at a waterhole. Passing by this little group - busy quenching their thirst, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to try capture their unique bush beauty and cautious personalities.
Their light-brown and almost coppery tones blend so well with the background, and provide a very good example (for me) of the importance of camouflage for much wildlife in the African bush. With a single bound, an impala can cover more than 10 meters in distance and soar 3 meters high, all while sprinting at speeds of 80 to 90 km/h, evading predators with ease. The females, affectionately known as ewes, navigate this landscape without horns, while the males, or rams, proudly sport magnificent, twisted horns that can grow up to 36 inches long, adding to their striking appearance.
These majestic antelope are not just remarkable for their physical prowess; they are also versatile feeders. They gracefully browse on shrubs, graze on grass, and delight in acacia pods and fruits whenever they are in season. Despite their roaming nature, impalas seldom wander more than a few miles or kilometers from their beloved watering holes, ensuring they always have a vital resource nearby. Come early winter, the savannah comes alive with the sounds of rutting season. Young rams form spirited bachelor herds, while the strongest among them stake their claim, establishing solitary territories that they fiercely defend during this time. The females form close-knit breeding herds, ensuring the survival of their species.
Perhaps the most captivating sight is witnessing an impala in flight. Startled by a potential threat, they showcase their renowned leaps over shrubs and bushes, a breathtaking display of their agility and survival instincts.
Raw Africa Collection
Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, and the life-giving.
This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful, gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen to it. This photographic journey explores, profiles, and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. From its deep bush to its dry savannah and desert, Africa remains a place where life is represented by timeless vistas that are distilled into moments to treasure.
