Gemsbok Graphics

This post is part of  Kalahari  Series II – 2011. The previous post in the series is Fierce Creatures. Also see Kalahari Series I – 2009.

Gemsbok are very large buck which are specifically adapted to life with very little water, and very high day-time temperatures. The South African side of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park used to be called the Kalahari Gemsbok Park, because the Gemsbok are such a feature there. Often standing silhouetted up on the red dunes. We have seen mostly smallish herds (approx 15-20 animals) of Gemsbok or solitary Gemsbok. [ From Kalahari: Herds]

Their unique marking and long sharp horns allow them to form very interesting patterns when they are standing together in groups. The formations they stand in, often to provide maximum protection for the group against predators, also make for stunning photographic subjects.

©LB/notesfromafrica.wordpress.com

©Heyns Kotze

©WMB/notesfromafrica.wordpress.com

©Heyns Kotze

©LB/notesfromafrica.wordpress.com

The Gemsbok graphics are even reflected in the water ©WMB/notesfromafrica.wordpress.com

Thank you to Heyns Kotze for generously allowing me to use his beautiful photographs in this post. See individual photos for credits.

The Kalahari 2011 Series:

• An oasis in the desert
• Take your camera to the bathroom (and other Kalahari safari tips)
• The long road North – Southern Cape to Upington
• The Long Road North – Upington
• Showing your kid where its food comes from
• Fierce Creatures
• Gemsbok Graphics (this post)
• The Long Road North – Upington to Twee Rivieren and beyond
• Campfire story: The Last Outpost
• Slip-Slap-Slop-Slide and other Bush Beauty Tips
• Nossob
• Hey Mom . . . wait for me!
• A tough customer
• Frenzy at the “water hole” – includes the movie
• The Camp Cat