Waterbuck

Kobus ellipsiprymnus

Description

Waterbuck have long necks and short legs, which are black towards the hoof and white rings above the hooves. Their long bodies are covered in coarse hair which forms a mane on the neck. This hair can range from gray to red-brown which becomes darker with age. This species can grow to have a shoulder height of 120-136 cm and 177-235 cm long. Male waterbuck have forward curving horns that can grow to be 55-99 cm long.

Habitat

Waterbucks are herbivores, which mean they only consume vegetation. Waterbuck prefer a variety of grasses of medium and short length. The protein rich diet is sometimes supplemented with other herbs. This species is very dependent on water availability.

Feeding Behavior and Diet

Waterbucks are herbivores, which mean they only consume vegetation. Waterbuck prefer a variety of grasses of medium and short length. The protein rich diet is sometimes supplemented with other herbs. This species is very dependent on water availability.

Reproduction

Breeding that occurs near the equator is perennial, producing young about every ten months. The northern African populations have calves annually. Waterbuck gather in groups called leks to breed and males become more territorial during rut, or breeding season. The gestation period of a waterbuck is 8-8.5 months. Males become sexually mature after six years while females mature after three years.

Months and Times of Activity

Activity of this species is dependent on seasonal differences, habitat, grazing conditions, distance from water, and the number of predators within an area. This species tends to rest more during conditions of low water availability. Most activity occurs during the daytime with sparse activity during the night.

Special Features, Stories, Relationships

•    Young, healthy males have larger territories than older males. Females occur in small herds of 5-10 individuals with overlapping home ranges. These female herds have established hierarchy dominance based on seniority. Males separate from female groups after they grow their horns and form bachelor groups until they are sexually mature.
•    Male waterbucks begin to get their horns after 8-9 months. The length of a waterbucks horns are a determinant of age.
•    Children’s book featuring this animal: The Antelope Who Loved Cantaloupe by Celeste Marie Halata

References

 Newell, T. 1999. "Kobus ellipsiprymnus" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed November 04, 2014 at http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Kobus_ellipsiprymnus/