Black Lechwe | Online Record Book Preview

Kobus leche smithemani

Named for F. Smitheman, who was, perhaps, the first European to take one.

DESCRIPTION The black lechwe is not actually black, but old males may turn blackish brown on the back and sides. Females and younger males are a dark chestnut color that is somewhat darker than a red lechwe. The horns are shorter and thinner than in the other races.

DISTRIBUTION The area surrounding Lake Bangweulu in northeastern Zambia. At one time black lechwe were also found along the upper Chambeshi River in Zambia, but they no longer occur there.

REMARKS Depending on the water level, one may be able to bag a black lechwe from near the vehicle, or may have to wade. It is not uncommon to encounter large herds of hundreds, or even thousands of animals on completely dry ground. They will part for a vehicle, then close ranks behind it, partly obliterated by the dust cloud they have made. Under these conditions it is very difficult to judge horn size, especially as the difference between a respectable trophy and a superb one is slight.