Mammals · Bovidae
Elands
Taurotragus (genus)
Least Concern
The common eland, also known as the southern eland or eland antelope, is a savannah and plains antelope found in East and Southern Africa. It is the largest antelope on the African continent. The name "eland" is derived from the Dutch word for moose.
Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Family: Bovidae
Genus: Taurotragus
Other names: Antelope, Oryx
Conservation Status
Least Concern.
Size
The world's largest antelope. Stand 6 ft at the shoulder and weigh just over 2,000 lbs. Common and giant eland are similar in size.
Habitat
Found in Africa in grassland, mountain, subdesert, acacia savanna, and miombo woodland.
Description
Unique spiral horns up to 3 ft long, a slight shoulder hump, and a reddish-brown to chestnut, light tan, or gray coat with a thick, shaggy mane.
Diet
Herbivores — grass, succulent fruits, shrubs, and leaves.
Gestation
250-270 days.
Birth
A single calf, weaned around 6 months of age.
Sexually Mature
Females at 3 years, males at 4-7 years.
Life Span
15-20 years.
Social Structure
Groups of up to 100 members.
Athleticism
Can reach speeds of up to 43 mph and jump as high as 4.5 ft.
Did You Know?
Elands are nomadic, and tend to move as they graze.
Did You Know?
Elands can go for long periods without drinking — they get much of their moisture from their food.
Species of Eland
Common Eland (Southern Eland) — Taurotragus oryx
Giant Eland (Lord Derby Eland) — Taurotragus derbianus
Elands in Foreign Languages
Irishéalann
Navajotłʼééʼgo jádístsoh
SwahiliMbunga
