Topi | Online Record Book Preview

Damaliscus lunatus jimela

Topi (Sp), Topi (G), Topi (F). Topi is evidently a local name for this animal in parts of Kenya.

DESCRIPTION Shoulder height 48-50 inches (122-127 cm). Weight 250-270 pounds (113-122 kg).

The topi is the smallest of the topi group (topi, tiang and korrigum) and grows the smallest horns. It is darker and more richly colored than either the korrigum or tiang. Its general color is a rich reddish brown with a strong, iridescent purplish gloss. The purplish black patches on shoulders, hips and upper legs are darker and more extensive, extending down the front legs to form a garter above the knee. As in the tiang, the lower legs are bright tan, contrasting with the reddish body color. There is no dark stripe from the facial blaze through the eye. The horns (both sexes) are small, notably shorter and slimmer than in the korrigum or tiang.

BEHAVIOR AND HABITAT As for korrigum.

DISTRIBUTION Discontinuously, in parts of extreme eastern Congo (K) adjacent to Uganda; in southwestern and eastern Uganda; southwestern and southeastern Kenya; southwestern Somalia; Rwanda; and western and northern Tanzania.

TAXONOMIC NOTES Includes two listed subspecies: topi (coastal topi, of southeastern Kenya and southwestern Somalia) and jimela (the rest of the distribution range), with jimela Matschie, 1892 having priority.