Tsessebe
wildlife of Namibia
Introduction: The tsessebe (Damaliscus lunatus) is a large antelope with a distinctive sloping back. The name comes from the Tswana language for the species. They are gregarious and small herds of females occupy a home range which overlaps the territory of the male. Both sexes carry short, ringed horns of around 34cm. Although rather ungainly in appearance, tsessebe are reputed to be the fastest of any antelope in the southern Africa, sustaining a lumbering gallop for great distances, an advantage when being preyed upon by lion.
Distribution: Tsessebe are found only in the Caprivi region of Namibia.
Diet: Tsessebe are almost exclusively grazers and prefer tall grasses. They make heavier use of burnt areas and in Botswana, the Bushmen burn the veld annually for the specific purpose of attracting the species on to them, making their hunting easier. They are dependent on a regular supply of drinking water.
Colouring: The general colour of the body is dark reddish-brown with a distinct iridescent purplish-sheen, with a darker head and legs.
Breeding: Tsessebe are seasonal breeders and one calf is born at a time. The females make no attempt to hide their young and shortly after birth they join their mothers.
Size: Adult males stand about 1.2m at the shoulder and weigh around 140kg. Females are slightly smaller and are lighter at 126kg.
Caprivi Houseboat Safari Lodge
Just outside the town of Katima Mulilo lies this small river front lodge. The accommodation is rustic, the food awesome and the situation idyllic - resulting in some of the best value for money accommodation in Namibia
Chobe Savanna Lodge
Overlooking the vast Chobe floodplain's from its situation in the east Caprivi this lodge has a lot to offer visitors
Ichingo Chobe River Lodge
One of the best lodges in this area has accommodation in both traditional land based units as well as on two houseboats.
Impalila Island Lodge
This is the only place in the world where four countries meet. A wonderful Chobe destination with eight luxury chalets.
Mahangu Safari Lodge
Situated close to the Mahangu Park in west Caprivi - this is an excellent stop-over between Namibia, Maun (in Botswana) and the Victoria Falls
Mazambala Island Lodge
Situated on an island in the Kwando river around 4km from the trans-Caprivi highway
Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge
Brand new lodge in east Caprivi - ideal for exploring the wetlands of the Mamili National Park
Ntwala Island Lodge
situated on three small islands this is an ultra-luxurious Chobe destination, with four suites, each with plunge pool and private guiding
Susuwe Island Lodge
in the Bwabwata National Park this is a perfect land and water camp with six luxury suites, each with private plunge pool
Zovu Elephant Lodge
In the far eastern Caprivi this lodge offers lots of water based activities on both the Chobe & Zambezi Rivers
