Knowsley Safari Park has marked its 40th anniversary this summer by adding a new species to its collection.
For the first time in its history, three roan antelope are now on view at the attraction. The trio were previously part of the collection at Marwell Wildlife Park near Winchester.
In the wild roan antelope are found in areas of lightly wooded savanna and tall grass in various parts of Africa. They live in herds of around 20 animals and feed on grasses, herbs and the leaves of small bushes.
They are one of the continent¹s largest antelope, and are renowned for being very courageous animals.
If threatened by a predator - including lions - they will confront it with their scimitar-shaped horns. Many big cats have died during these encounters.
The roan join an already impressive group of African antelope at Knowsley which includes representatives of the bongo, eland, lechwe and sitatunga species.
David Ross, Safari Park General Manager, said: “These are exciting and attractive animals and I am very pleased that even after 40 years we are still recording firsts for our collection.
“I would describe them as antelope with attitude - they are large and powerful animals who really stand up for themselves against both other antelope and predators.”
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