Common Eland: Characteristics, Diet, Facts & More [Fact Sheet]

The Common Eland, known scientifically as Taurotragus oryx, is the largest species of antelope found in Africa. These majestic creatures are renowned for their size, strength, and surprisingly gentle demeanor.

Elands hold a special place in African wildlife, with their impressive stature and unique characteristics. This article provides an in-depth look at the Eland, exploring its classification, habitat, behavior, and the role it plays in the ecosystem.

The Common Eland at a Glance

Classification

Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Mammalia (Mammals)
Order:	Artiodactyla
Family:	Bovidae
Genus:	Taurotragus
Species:	T. oryx

Essential Information

Average Size:	Height at shoulder: 4.5 to 6 feet (1.4 to 1.8 meters)
Average Weight:	880 to 2,200 pounds (400 to 1,000 kg)
Average Lifespan:	15 to 20 years in the wild
Geographical Range:	Eastern and Southern Africa
Conservation Status:	Least Concern (IUCN Red List)

Species and Subspecies

The genus Taurotragus includes two recognized species: the Common Eland (Taurotragus oryx) and the Giant Eland (Taurotragus derbianus). These species are further divided into subspecies based on their geographical distribution.

• The Common Eland includes two subspecies: the East African Eland (T. o. pattersonianus) and the Southern Eland (T. o. oryx). The East African Eland is slightly smaller and found primarily in East Africa, while the Southern Eland is larger and widespread in Southern Africa.
• The Giant Eland is also divided into two subspecies: the Western Giant Eland (T. d. derbianus) and the Eastern Giant Eland (T. d. gigas). The Western Giant Eland is critically endangered and found in Senegal, while the Eastern Giant Eland is more widespread in Central Africa.

These species and subspecies differ slightly in size, coloration, and horn shape, adapting to various habitats across the African continent.

Description

Elands are robust and heavily built antelopes, with males typically larger than females. They feature a short, dense coat that varies in color from fawn to tawny and can turn more gray with age.

A distinctive feature of elands is their prominent dewlap, a flap of skin extending from the throat and chest, which is more pronounced in males.

Males also possess dense, spiral horns that can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) long. Females have thinner, slightly shorter horns. Both sexes have a straight ridge of hair along their backs and large, pendulous ears.

Sexual dimorphism in elands is evident. Besides size differences, males have thicker necks, larger horns, and a more pronounced dewlap compared to females. Males may also develop a tuft of hair on their foreheads as they age.

Habitat and Distribution

Elands are versatile in their habitat preferences, inhabiting grasslands, woodlands, sub-desert areas, and mountainous terrains. They are found across Eastern and Southern Africa, with each species and subspecies occupying different ranges within this region.

The Common Eland is more widespread, found in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. The rarer Giant Eland is found in more localized areas in Central and Western Africa, including regions in Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and Senegal.

Behavior

Elands are primarily diurnal but can be active during cooler parts of the night. They are known for being particularly agile despite their size, capable of jumping over 8 feet (2.5 meters) from a standing position.

Elands are social animals, typically found in herds that can vary in size from a few individuals to hundreds. Herd composition can change, with females and juveniles often forming separate groups from mature males.

Elands communicate using a variety of vocalizations, visual signals, and scents. They can produce a loud, barking sound when alarmed and also rely on body language, such as posturing and movements of their ears and tails, to communicate within the herd. Scent marking is also a significant aspect of their communication, particularly for males establishing territory or during mating.

The behavior of elands, from their social dynamics to their impressive agility, is a testament to their adaptability in the diverse landscapes of Africa. Their ability to thrive in varying environments highlights their importance in the African savannas and woodlands.

Diet and Feeding Behavior

Elands are herbivores with a diet that primarily consists of grasses, leaves, and branches. They are known to feed on a wide variety of plant species, adapting their diet according to the season and available vegetation. During dry periods, they can consume more leaves and twigs from bushes and trees, while in wet seasons, they prefer fresh grasses.

Their feeding behavior is characterized by both grazing and browsing. Elands are not ruminants, but they have a highly efficient digestive system that allows them to extract maximum nutrients from their plant-based diet. This adaptability in feeding habits helps them survive in environments with varying food availability.

Predators

Due to their large size, adult elands have few natural predators. However, they can fall prey to large carnivores such as lions, leopards, and hyenas, especially young, old, or sick individuals. Calves are more vulnerable and rely on the protection of the herd for survival.

Elands have several defense mechanisms against predators, including their ability to run at high speeds and their formidable size. Herds also provide safety in numbers, as they can alert each other to the presence of predators and collectively take action to evade or deter them.

Reproduction and Life Cycle

Elands do not have a specific breeding season, with mating occurring throughout the year. However, there may be peaks in mating activity influenced by environmental conditions. Males compete for access to females, often engaging in displays of strength and dominance.

The gestation period for elands is around 9 months. After this period, a single calf is usually born. Twins are rare but not unheard of.

Eland calves are born relatively well-developed and can stand and walk shortly after birth. Initially, the mother hides the calf for a few days before introducing it to the herd.

The calf is weaned at about 6 months but may remain with the mother until the birth of the next calf. Elands reach sexual maturity at around 2 to 3 years of age, although males may not breed until they have established themselves in the social hierarchy of the herd.

The reproductive strategy of elands, involving extended care for the young and a flexible breeding pattern, ensures the continuation of their species across the diverse landscapes of Africa.

Conservation and Threats

The conservation status of elands varies depending on the species. The Common Eland is classified as “Least Concern” by the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population.

However, certain subspecies, particularly those in localized regions, may face more significant threats. The Giant Eland is listed as “Vulnerable,” with its population experiencing a decline due to habitat loss, hunting, and civil unrest in its range.

Conservation efforts for elands include habitat protection and management, anti-poaching measures, and, in some cases, captive breeding programs.

Efforts are also made to involve local communities in conservation activities, promoting sustainable coexistence and reducing human-wildlife conflict.

Fun Facts

1. Impressive Jumpers: Despite their size, elands are remarkable jumpers, capable of leaping over 8 feet high from a standstill.
2. Gentle Giants: Elands are known for their gentle and docile nature, making them one of the less aggressive large herbivores in Africa.
3. Survival Skills: Elands can survive in harsh conditions by reducing their metabolic rate and water needs, an adaptation crucial for survival in arid environments.
4. Cultural Significance: Elands hold significant cultural and symbolic importance in various African societies, often featured in rock art and folklore.
5. Speedy Runners: Elands are not only strong but also fast, capable of running at speeds up to 40 miles per hour.

Frequently Asked Questions