Antidorcas marsupialis - When threatened, the springbok has developed an unusual behavior to deter potential predators. The springbok stiffens its legs, arches its back, and repeatedly springs up with enough force to bring the animal 3 meters off the ground. These displays are known as “pronking” and demonstrate the strength and vitality of the individual. Should “pronking” fail, a springbok can easily outrun most predators. It is capable of reaching speeds of 100 km/h.
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Lüderitz was a German settlement established along the coast of Namibia in 1883. It became the foothold for Germany to expand its control over the region; the colony “Deutsch-Südwestafrika,” German Southwest Africa was formed in 1884. In 1909, diamonds were discovered in the vicinity and the colony enjoyed a period of prosperity. Germany lost control of Namibia following its defeat in World War I. The area was administrated by South Africa until Namibia achieved independence in 1990.
