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Kobus leche
Lechwi (Sp), Litschi, Moorantilope (G), Cobe lechwe (F).
DESCRIPTION (male) Shoulder height 39-44 inches (99-112 cm). Weight 200-280 pounds (90-127 kg).
A medium-sized antelope with a rather short muzzle and hindquarters that are somewhat higher than the shoulders. The rather long, rough coat varies from bright chestnut-red to blackish in overall color, with underparts white from chin to belly, conspicuous black markings on the front legs, and a white patch above the hoofs. The hoofs are long and pointed; the back of the pasterns is hairless. The horns (males only) are long, ringed and lyrate, forming a double or S-shaped curve. Females are similar to males, but more lightly built and without horns.
DISTRIBUTION Private ranches in Texas and elsewhere.
REMARKS Native to southern Africa, where they are the most aquatic antelope after the sitatunga, living in permanent swamps and wetlands. Their long, narrow hoofs and hairless pasterns are adaptations to swamp habitat. Excellent swimmers though unable to run fast on dry land, they take refuge in shallow water. They can graze in water as deep as two feet (61 cm), but prefer depths of 2-8 inches (5-20 cm). Lechwe on game ranches in the United States (and South Africa) usually live on dry ground that is vastly different from their natural habitat. Three subspecies of southern lechwe are found in Africa, but are not separated here.
As of 4/4/12 every entry must have a copy of the US Fish & Wildlife harvest permit accompany the score sheet to be considered as a entry.
HYBRIDIZATION The common lechwe is either known or believed to crossbreed, or to be the result of hybridization, when in a game ranch environment.
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