Nearly extinct ‘forgotten antelope’ photographed for first time in DRC

A rare antelope known as Upemba lechwe has been spotted alive for the first time in decades, raising hope for a species at risk of extinction. With only fewer than 100 individuals remaining, researchers found one individual during an aerial survey in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The brief encounter allowed them to capture a historic photo, marking the first image taken of this elusive subspecies since its discovery nearly two decades ago. However, the antelope’s survival relies on urgent conservation efforts to stem illegal poaching and protect the last remaining herds. This rare sighting could serve as a rallying cry to prioritize their protection before it’s too late.