Updated
The topi is a fast, glossy reddish-brown antelope with dark purple-black patches on the face, shoulders and thighs and yellowish lower legs. It is a grazer of open plains and often stands on termite mounds to watch for predators. In Uganda, topi are found mainly in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park and in Lake Mburo National Park.
Speed and lookout
Topi are among the fastest antelopes, able to run at around 70 km/h, and their endurance helps them outrun lions. Standing on a termite mound gives a sentry a wide view over the grass, and males also use mounds to show off to females and rivals. When alarmed, they snort and stamp before running off.
Social life
Topi live in herds of females and young, with males holding territories. In some populations in East Africa, males gather on small, crowded breeding grounds called leks, where females choose a mate. Topi are selective grazers, preferring fresh, medium-height grass, so they move as the grass changes through the seasons.
Where to see it
In Ishasha, topi graze on the open plains where the tree-climbing lions live; in Lake Mburo they are common on game drives. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to the tree-climbing lions, Lake Mburo, Jackson’s hartebeest and Queen Elizabeth.
Frequently asked questions
In the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth and in Lake Mburo.
To watch for predators and to display to rivals.
It can run at around 70 km/h.
Grass, mainly fresh, medium-height growth.
