Getting to Know the Impala
This stately antelope (Aepyceros melampus) is a perennial crowd-favorite on any game drive. With a glossy coat of cinnamon and cream set against a bright white belly, the Impala is as elegant as it is athletic.
The "M" Brand
God has given the impala some very specific “branding.” Black hairs ring the eyes and tip the ears, head, and feet. Most famously, they sport a distinctive black “M”-shape on their buttocks.
In the guide world, there is a running joke about that marking:
"Mmmmmm," say the carnivores! It’s the “M” for Mmm-pala—the most common “fast food” on the plains. (Get it? Fast food? Ha!)
Speed and Agility
However, catching an impala is no easy task. They are masters of evasion, utilizing a combination of raw speed and high-stakes acrobatics:
Sprinting: They can reach speeds upwards of 55 mph.
Agility: They are famous for cutting sharply mid-run to lose a predator.
Leaping: An impala can leap 10 feet high and cover a staggering 30 feet forward in a single bound.
A Symbiotic Friendship
In the shot above, you'll notice two oxpeckers resting on this female. This is a classic example of mutualism in the wild; these birds provide a "cleaning service" by picking at parasites and ticks, while the impala provides a steady food source for the birds.
See the Impala in the Wild
While they are common, watching a herd of impalas “pronking” (leaping) across the grasslands never gets old. Join us as we explore the heart of Tanzania and Kenya.
2026 Safari Dates: Limited seats are still available for our February and June expeditions.
2027 Planning: We are currently accepting early inquiries for our return to the Serengeti. Email us here for more information.
For a clearer view to the “M” brand on the impala, see our post: Start with the Impala to Find the "Very Good" in the Serengeti.
