#KeWildlife – Story 14

A Waller’s gazelle is something else. For starters, it is long-necked – a copycat of the giraffe to some extent. Its neck extends ahead of its body. Then, it is muscular and evidence is in its strong limbs. Above this, it has a smooth fur ranging from dark brown on its back to light brown on its sides. Its gallop is ever so graceful, boasting its uniqueness to its cousins – the gazelles.

You may have come across this wildlife at the Samburu National Reserve where it is among the famous five of the area albeit by another name.

Gerenuk is the other name given to this interesting gazelle species, but did you know that this word (Gerenuk) is actually Somali? Meaning ‘giraffe-necked’?

This animal is described as long rather than tall because of its neck and limbs that contribute to its exquisite nature. Another long feature is its snout, which is pointed – enabling it to eat the small leaves on thorny shrubs and trees. While we’re on the subject of trees, this antelope species is the only one that can reach taller branches and stands on its hind legs to do so. The manner is rather unorthodox but unique nonetheless.

The male Gerenuk is distinct in that they have heavily ringed 17-inch horns and a toned neck compared to the females. Interestingly, during gestation, the male’s neck can swell significantly. While the female stands between 80 and 100cm, the male stands between 85 and 105cm.

A common feature between this animal and most gazelles is the pre-orbital glands in front of the eyes that emit a tar-like, scent-bearing substance they deposit on twigs and bushes to mark their territory. Given that its home is in the drier area of our country, this animal survives on little water if none at all.

The gerenuk lives in a small herd of up to 10 gazelles. They are shy animals, so for the photographers that are looking into wildlife, this one requires patience and a good lens for the perfect shot. If you have the patience and long to see this beautiful species indigenous to Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Tanzania, we suggest a trip to Tsavo National Park or Meru National Park, but the Gerenuk is in plenty in Samburu.