Meeting Abstract
Zebra (Equus quagga), wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus) and tsessebe (Damaliscus lunatus) are large African herbivores in the Okavango Delta ecosystem. Zebra and wildebeest are known for the ability to cover long distances and in some ecosystems seasonally migrate, while tsessebe are often described as the fastest antelope species. We collared eight members of each species with high resolution GPS/IMU collars to gain insight into their daily energy expenditure and the extent of their ranging and running performance. Our study animals are almost exclusively permanent residents of the study area, with the exception of two zebra that participated in the seasonal migration between the Delta and Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, the second longest known migration route. Resident zebra traveled distances of up to 35 km per day on multiple occasions. All zebra frequently achieved speeds above 6 m/s, often multiple times per day with no diurnal pattern in when runs occurred. Energy expenditure was calculated from daily distances travelled, speed and size derived cost of transport. High speed running events are examined in regards of speed, acceleration and maneuverability (turning radius and centripetal acceleration).
