Males of the species are significantly larger than their female counterparts. They can weigh between 400 and 1,000 kg (approximately 800 to 2,200 pounds), dwarfing the females, who range from 300 to 600 kg (700 to 1,300 pounds). To the uninitiated observer, their bulky stature may indeed evoke comparisons to domesticated cows or oxen, yet a closer look reveals a creature uniquely adapted to its environment, embodying the essence of wild Africa.
These majestic animals demonstrate remarkable flexibility in their social arrangements, ranging from solitary wanderers to members of large herds that can number up to 100 individuals. These herds are primarily composed of females and juveniles, moving in unison toward regions abundant in food resources, showcasing their preference for community and collaboration in the quest for sustenance. In contrast, smaller groups or solitary elands tend to be adult males, embodying a more independent existence.
Elands exhibit an adaptability in their dietary habits that ensures their survival across varying landscapes and seasons. Their preference for a plant-based diet includes a wide variety of grasses, leaves, and fruits, allowing them to thrive in both lush and arid environments. Remarkably, elands possess the ability to endure the dry season with minimal water intake, a testament to their efficiency in conserving resources and their physiological adaptation to the challenging African climate.
Beyond their survival strategies, elands hold a significant place in the cultural and ecological tapestry of their native lands. Their movement patterns and grazing habits play a crucial role in shaping the vegetation of the savannah, contributing to the biodiversity and health of their ecosystems. Moreover, elands have been featured in the folklore and art of various African cultures, symbolizing strength, speed, and endurance, and continue to be revered as one of the continent’s most iconic species.
Distribution
Angola
Botswana
Burundi
Official estimate
DR Congo (Kinshasa)
Eswatini
Ethiopia
Kenya
Lesotho
Malawi
Mozambique
Namibia
Rwanda
South Africa
South Sudan
Tanzania
Uganda
Zambia
ZimbabweAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
