Common name: Common Eland
Scientific name: Taurotragus oryx
Conservation Status: Least Concern
At the zoo: Thando (male, 8y), Makosa (male, 7y), Venus (female, 11y), Thumper (female, 5y), and Bambi (female, 4y) - you can find them in the SW corner of the zoo, next to the Zebra.
Habitat:
Common Eland inhabit grasslands, mountainous areas, sub-deserts, acacia savannahs and miombo woodland areas in eastern and southern Africa.
Diet:
In the wild, they will graze on shrubs, bushes, grasses and sometimes will eat fruit, roots and bulbs.
Life Expectancy:
13 years
Biology:
A highly adaptable ruminant, the common eland is one of the largest and slowest African antelopes. They are browsers that seasonally wander across large areas in search of food. They can go prolonged periods without water, obtaining most of the moisture they need from food.
Both male and female common eland possess slightly twisted horns, however they are generally thinner on the females. Males can also be distinguished from females by their darker coat, the coarse patch of hair they grow on their forehead and their larger size.
Although their population is currently stable and occurs in protected areas, common eland are hunted for food and sport and may encounter challenges as human settlements expand.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that Common Eland make clicking sounds with their knees when they walk!?
