Common Eland

Physical Description

The common eland are one of the largest species of antelopes, second to the Giant Eland, in the world growing up to 6 feet at the shoulder and weighing between 850-1500 lbs. They are light brown in color with several white stripes across their backs with a short dark mane. Both males and females have large spiral horns on top of their heads. Males horns will be thicker since it is used for dominance and fighting other males. Females will have longer but thinner horns used to protect their young from potential predators. They also have a dewlap, flap of skin under their neck, which aids in cooling. Males will have black hair growing on their dewlap as well as on their forehead.

Predators

Common predators for adult eland are lions and spotted hyenas. Their young are preyed upon by leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs.

Lifespan

In the wild they can live between 15-20 years, but under human care they can live up to 25 years old.

Reproduction

Common Eland males will often follow a female eland around placing his head on her side or on her back until she is still, indicating she is ready. Dominant males will often fight off other males but will mate with multiple females. Their gestation period is nine months long and the young are weaned at six months of age. Females reach sexual maturity between 15-36 months while males will reach it between 4-5 years of age.

Fun Facts

• Adult Eland can jump as high as 8 feet from a standing start when startled.
• When walking, Eland’s joints or tendons in their forelegs produce a sharp clicking sound. Scientists are still researching the purpose of this sound, but they believe it is a form of communication.
• This species is a social species that often forms male herds, female herds, and nursery herds.

Conservation Messaging

Conservation of the Natural World:

Common eland are currently listed as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, just like many other African species, they face many threats to their habitats. One major issue is habitat loss because of agriculture, infrastructure, and resource extraction.

One thing that we can do is support sustainable agriculture practices. By purchasing products that are certified such as Bird Friendly Coffee, you are helping in the conservation of forests and habitats around the world.