The savannah at Spain’s BIOPARC Valencia is full of activity now that three Impala calves are running and playing with each other.

Born just a few weeks apart this spring, the Impala calves are part of the zoo’s small herd which mimics the social conditions these antelopes would experience in the wild.  Pregnant females separate themselves from the herd before giving birth. Calves are usually born at midday, and when the calves are a few weeks old, they rejoin the herd.  Young Impalas are grouped into nurseries, where they are watched over by adults.

Photo Credit:  Bioparc Valencia

Impala are native to eastern and southern Africa, where they inhabit woodlands and the edges of savannahs, often near water sources.  Only the males have the distinctive lyre-shaped, spiral horns, which are used during disputes with other males over territorial boundaries and mating rights. Impalas are generally active during the day, feeding on vegetation.

Impalas are not currently under threat, although like all wild animals, their habitat is slowly being encroached upon by growing human activity.  Fortunately, about a quarter of all Impalas live within protected parks and reserves in Africa.

See more photos of the calves below.