2i4 RECORDS OF BIG GAME 



Skull and Horns of Male Pala, from a specimen shot by Mr. A. H. Neumann. - 



PALA or IMP ALA (^Epyceros melampus). 



Inzero of the Masubias. Luondo and Mpala in Barotsiland, 



SwalaJi of the Swahilis. Ngamiland, Chilala, and Chibisa. 



The graceful pala differs from all the members of the gazelle group 

 by the absence of the lateral hoofs ; its specific name (black-footed) 

 being taken from the pair of tufts of black hair on each hind-foot. 

 The horns of the bucks, which are of considerable length in proportion 

 to the size of the animal, show a characteristic and graceful double 

 curvature ; and the bright foxy red hue of the shining hair of the 

 upper-parts is very characteristic. Height at shoulder about 33 inches. 

 The Boer name of rooibok (red buck) is happily chosen. Weight 

 about i i o Ibs. 



Distribution. Southern and South-Eastern Africa, extending as far north 

 as Lower Kordofan. In Angola replaced by a form (AZ, petersi), 

 usually regarded as a distinct species, but which is perhaps only a 

 local race (SE. melampus petersi\ distinguished by the presence of 

 a purplish black streak down the middle of the face and another 



