Most of the [G 45 / ungulates] of the Serengeti region are preyed upon by two types of predator: stalkers, (cheetahs, leopards, and lions) and chasers (hyenas and wild dogs). Prey species can not be both fast sprinters and good distance runners. Defense mechanisms and behaviors such as color, time of birth and speed, lessen the chance of being singled out and eaten but no defense is perfect.
Large antelope species, such as the wildebeest, kongoni and topi form herds and rely on the anonymity of the herd to lessen the chances of being singled out. Their legs and hooves are also adapted for sprinting over hard terrain. The smaller antelope species like the [I 004 / dikdik] and [I 009 / klipspringer] that can not form herds, adopt a strategy of hiding. Their coats provide camouflage and if there is no cover, they simply "freeze" and blend into the surrounding environment.
Some species protect newborns by hiding the young in thickets or tall grass until they have developed greater mobility. In the case of the wildebeest and zebra, the young are born on the open plains, denying predators cover. The calves are able to run shortly after birth, only 10 minutes for the newborn wildebeest. Quick immersion into the herd is essential for the survival of a newborn wildebeest.
Most ungulates, such as the wildebeest, topi and warthog, have peak birth periods in which the majority of the young are born in a three to six week period. The glut of newborns increases the chances of survival for each animal. The mortality from predation in peak birth ungulates is lower than species that give birth throughout the year.
Other examples of defensive behaviors are: the zig zag movements of the dikdik, avoidance of dense vegetation, the single-file travel of the wildebeest and the "starburst" behavior of the impala. The impala is a species of antelope which has exceptional jumping ability. When ambushed, the group will bound in all directions, distracting and confusing the predator.
