Wildlife researchers have made a remarkable find, publishing the first known photograph of the Upemba Lechwe, one of Africa’s most endangered antelope species. This breakthrough came during a recent aerial survey conducted in the Kamalondo Depression, located in the southern Democratic Republic of Congo. The survey revealed only 10 of these rare antelopes, suggesting their total population is likely below 100.
Manuel Weber, who led the research, described the Upemba Lechwe as being "on the very brink" of extinction. Notably, these antelopes are characterized by the absence of dark stripes on their legs and lack of dark patches on their shoulders, differentiating them from other antelope species in the region. Weber emphasized the area's rich biodiversity, calling it a "magical place," yet he also cautioned that conservation faces significant challenges due to rising human populations, fishing, and hunting activities.
Weber stated, "The fact the Upemba Lechwe is still hanging on at all is extraordinary," but also warned that without immediate protective measures, the species could "vanish." This recent study marked the first attempt to survey the Upemba Lechwe in over five decades, underscoring the urgency of conservation efforts.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has a reputation for capturing iconic wildlife images; most notably, a viral photo of two gorillas posing with a ranger at Virunga National Park in 2019. With this new photographic evidence of the Upemba Lechwe, hopes for conservation and revitalization of the species remain alive.
