South Africa | 5 Shillings

Springbok. This is an African antelope from the group of gazelles and forms its own genus. Today it is only found in southern Africa. It reaches a shoulder height of up to 90 centimetres and weighs up to 50 kilograms. The horns are up to 43 centimetres long. The name “springbok” comes from the vertical leaps with which this antelope jumps into the air when it is frightened. These jumps from a standing position can reach heights of 3.5 metres. It is found in the territories of South Africa, Namibia, Angola and Botswana. Its habitat is the open savannah. The total population is now estimated at 600,000 animals.