The topi is a medium-sized antelope that has reddish-brown fur. Older males have darker coats than females and calves. However, populations in different geographic locations can have different shades of fur. Adults have slightly curved horns that measure around 12 to 16 inches. Adult male topis are larger than females and measure in height to about 5 feet tall, with females measuring about 4 feet. Adults weigh anywhere from 190 to 325 pounds.

Topis live in grasslands and savannas in eastern and southern Africa. During the rainy season, topis tend to avoid short and mature grass and prefer longer more established grasses. During the dry season, topi herds and populations are abundant wherever there is a plentitude of grasses. Topis typically live in countries like Angola, Zambia, Botswana, Chad, Sudan, and others.

Topis are fairly picky eaters and mostly eat grasses, very rarely consuming things like leaves or other plants. Topis narrow muzzle allows them to select the best grass with tender growth.

When the grass supply is high, topi can eat the grass and go without water for quite a while. However, if the grass is not available the topi must drink water daily to survive. Topis are grazers and will feed for quite a while, before taking a small rest to chew their food, then continue to graze.

Sexually mature topis give birth about once a year and the birth usually coincides with the time when grass supplies are ample. However, topis do not follow a strict breeding/birthing season and will conceive at any time of the year if food supplies are good.

Topis will also give birth multiple times a year if conditions are in their favor. In fact, female topis have developed the incredible ability to stall their pregnancy if they sense danger nearby.

Topis are extremely social animals and have been known to mingle outside of their species. Their herds contain around 15 to 20 individuals usually, however, some contain hundreds.

The topis social structure is very flexible, in smaller groups, the male will protect the females and young of danger and defend them. However, in larger groups, the males only care for themselves and securing mates.

Topis are known to stand on termite mounds, males use it to establish their territory and females use it for alerting others of danger.