The Kafue lechwe (Kobus leche kafuensis) is a subspecies of antelope found in the floodplains and grasslands of the Kafue Flats in Zambia. 

Physical Characteristics: Kafue lechwe are medium-sized antelopes with a distinctive appearance. They have a reddish-brown coat that becomes darker during the wet season, blending in with the flooded grasslands. They have long, slender legs and a relatively short tail. Male Kafue lechwe has lyre-shaped horns that curve slightly backwards, while females are typically hornless.

Habitat: Kafue lechwe are adapted to semi-aquatic habitats, particularly the floodplains and swamps of the Kafue Flats. These areas are seasonally flooded by the Kafue River, providing abundant grazing opportunities for the lechwe during the dry season.

Diet: Kafue lechwe are herbivores, feeding primarily on grasses and aquatic vegetation. They are well adapted to grazing in wetland habitats and can swim and wade through shallow water to reach food sources.

Behaviour: Kafue lechwe are highly social animals and form large herds, particularly during the dry season when water and food are scarce. These herds can consist of hundreds to thousands of individuals, providing safety in numbers from predators such as lions and hyenas. They are most active during the early morning and late evening hours, resting in the shade during the heat of the day.

Reproduction: Breeding in Kafue Lechwe typically occurs during the rainy season, between November and April. After a gestation period of around 7 to 8 months, females give birth to a single calf, although twins are possible but rare. Calves are precocial and can stand and walk shortly after birth. They are cared for by their mothers and remain with the herd for protection.

Conservation Status: The Kafue lechwe population is considered stable, with conservation efforts focused on protecting their habitat and managing human-wildlife conflicts in the region. However, they face threats from habitat loss and degradation due to human activities such as agriculture, livestock grazing, and infrastructure development. Efforts to conserve the Kafue Flats ecosystem are crucial for the long-term survival of the Kafue lechwe and other wildlife species that depend on it.

Overall, the Kafue lechwe is an iconic species of the wetlands of Zambia, playing a vital role in the ecosystem and cultural heritage of the region. Protecting their habitat is essential for maintaining healthy populations and biodiversity in the Kafue Flats.