Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Thomas's Kob

Scientific name: Kobus kob thomasi


Thomas's Kob

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: BOVIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 30 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.11-31.12

Gestation: 8–9 mois

Births: 01.07-31.08


Habitat:
Wet savannas, grasslands, marshy areas

Description:
The Thomas's kob is a subspecies of the kob antelope, primarily inhabiting the wet savannas and grasslands of West Africa. It is recognizable by its golden-brown coat, lyre-shaped horns, and medium size, reaching about 90 cm at the shoulder. Males are generally larger and more robust than females. They live in complex social groups, often consisting of harems led by a dominant male. The Thomas's kob is a herbivore, feeding mainly on grasses and aquatic plants. It is well adapted to its environment, capable of moving quickly to escape predators. Its population is stable, but it is threatened by hunting and habitat loss.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Thomas's kob, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the animal. Aim to shoot early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and the kobs are more active. Be patient and discreet, using neutral-colored clothing to blend into the environment. Focus on capturing shots that show the kob in its natural habitat, incorporating elements of the savanna to provide context to your images.

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