Zimbabwe: Hwange NP – Roan Antelopes
Roan antelopes are one of the largest antelope species in the world and are comparative rare. They stand up to 5 feet at the shoulder and weight 600 pounds (160cm/275kg). I have seen them before but from far away and as a single individual. In Hwange National Park, I got lucky to come across a large herd of about 2 dozen (and also it was the first animal I spotted when I got off the plane). The roan antelope is skittish and doesn’t allow a close approach. They are a prized hunt for lions given the size and probably delicious meat. Their escape strategy is run and all else fails – using their horns to pierce the aggressor. Roans’ faces look like they came to a masquerade party with a mask-like appearance – black faces with white eyes and checks and brown body – they are very distinct. They somewhat reminded me of the Vendetta masks – the black and white – as if it was an Occupy Wall Street rally all over again.
