Fauna
Mammal · GBIF taxon 7261427

Thomson's Gazelle

Eudorcas thomsonii

Also known as Tommie, Tommies

Thomson's gazelles roam the open grasslands of East Africa, relying on exceptional speed and agility to outrun predators like cheetahs. Recognized by their crisp white bellies, rich tan coats, and bold black side stripes, these social ungulates move in fluid herds following seasonal rains. When threatened, they often perform stotting, leaping stiff-legged into the air to signal alertness to both predators and herd members.

SavannaFast RunnerHerbivore
Thomson's Gazelle reference1 / 7
Licensed reference(c) Bob, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Grasses
  • Herbs
  • Shrub leaves
Predators
  • Cheetah
  • Lion
  • Leopard
ThreatsHabitat loss, human encroachment, and agricultural expansion
HabitatsOpen savannas and short-grass plains
Life span10–12 years in the wild
Classification
  1. OrderArtiodactyla
  2. FamilyBovidae
  3. GenusEudorcas
  4. SpeciesEudorcas thomsonii
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Observing Herds: Use binoculars or a telephoto lens from safari vehicles to avoid triggering flight responses.
  • Watch for Stotting: Look for high vertical jumps with stiff legs when a herd detects potential danger.
  • Distinguishing Features: Look for the dark lateral stripe separating the tan back from the white belly.
Related species
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