The common eland (Taurotragus oryx), the largest antelope species in the world, is a majestic creature that gracefully roams the savannas and woodlands of Africa. With their striking spiral-shaped horns and muscular build, elands are both elegant and powerful.
Despite their size—adult males can weigh up to 900 kilograms (2,000 pounds)—eland are surprisingly agile. They can jump over fences and obstacles as high as 2.5 meters (8 feet) if threatened. Their tan coats with white vertical stripes help them blend into their surroundings, offering protection from predators like lions and hyenas.
Elands are herbivores, feeding on grasses, leaves, and shrubs. They are well-adapted to arid environments, as they can go long periods without water, obtaining moisture from their diet. Known for their social nature, elands form herds of up to 60 individuals, often moving together to avoid predators.
The common eland is a symbol of African wilderness, and conservation efforts are vital to ensure their survival in the face of habitat loss and human expansion.
