Grasses: Many antelope species are grazers, primarily feeding on a variety of grasses. This includes both short, green grasses and longer, tougher grasses.
Forbs: These are non-grassy flowering plants, including herbs, shrubs, and wildflowers. They provide antelope with a wider range of nutrients and minerals.
Leaves: Some antelope species, especially those living in areas with limited grasses, will browse on leaves, twigs, and shoots of trees and shrubs.
Fruits and Seeds: Antelope may also consume fruits and seeds when available, especially during the fruiting season.
Other Plant Material: Some antelope species, such as the gerenuk, are known to eat bark, lichen, and even cacti.
Water: Antelope need access to water to survive, but some species can obtain moisture from the plants they eat.
Factors that Influence Diet:
* Habitat: Antelope in grasslands will eat mostly grasses, while those in forested areas may eat more leaves and fruits.
* Season: Availability of different plant types varies throughout the year, influencing antelope diets.
* Competition: When competition for food is high, antelope may have to settle for less desirable plant materials.
Importance of Diet:
A balanced diet is crucial for antelope survival. It provides them with the energy, nutrients, and minerals needed for growth, reproduction, and survival.
Examples of Antelope Diet:
* Grant's Zebra: Mostly grasses
* Impala: Grasses, forbs, leaves
* Gerenuk: Leaves, twigs, bark, fruits
* Dik-dik: Forbs, leaves, seeds
* Springbok: Grasses, forbs, leaves, seeds