Pronking is the springbok’s signature move, a high, stiff-legged leap into the air. This dramatic display, where the animal can jump up to 13 feet, is thought to signal strength and agility to predators, discouraging pursuit. It may also serve as a form of play or social communication within the herd. With a flash of white from the flap of skin along its back and bursts of athletic energy, a pronking springbok is one of the most iconic sights on the African savanna. I photographed this one in the Kalahari Game Reserve of Botswana on my first trip to southern Africa in 2011. Nikon D300 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 400mm) ISO 800, f/6.3 at 1/800th of a second.
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Pronking is the springbok’s signature move, a high, stiff-legged leap into the air. This dramatic display, where the animal can jump up to 13 feet, is thought to signal strength and agility to predators, discouraging pursuit. It may also serve as a form of play or social communication within the herd. With a flash of white from the flap of skin along its back and bursts of athletic energy, a pronking springbok is one of the most iconic sights on the African savanna. I photographed this one in the Kalahari Game Reserve of Botswana on my first trip to southern Africa in 2011. Nikon D300 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 400mm) ISO 800, f/6.3 at 1/800th of a second.
Nice action shot, Sean!
Thanks. Pretty cool seeing these guys in action.