MOUNTAIN REEDBUCK
Redunca fulvorufula fulvorufula
DESCRIPTION
Mountain reedbuck (Redunca fulvorufula fulvorufula) is a medium-sized antelope characterized by its slender body and long legs. It has a distinctive reddish-brown coat with a lighter underbelly and white markings on the face and legs. These animals are known for their agility and are often found in hilly or mountainous regions, where they can navigate steep terrain with ease.
FUN FACTS
- Mountain reedbuck are known for their impressive jumping ability, which allows them to navigate rocky terrain with ease
- They can leap over obstacles that are several times their height, making them agile escape artists
- | These antelopes have a unique way of communicating with each other, using a series of whistles and grunts to signal danger or establish territory
- Their vocalizations are an important part of their social interactions, especially during the breeding season
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
Average Weight50-90 kg
Average Length1.2-1.5 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuresolitary or in small groups, typically consisting of a male and a few females.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks depending on local conditions
- Habitat
- This species inhabits grasslands and open woodlands, often at higher elevations. They prefer areas with dense cover for shelter and protection from predators.
- Biomes
- Montane Grassland, Savanna
- Native Range
- Mountain reedbuck is native to the mountainous regions of eastern and southern Africa.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Mozambique
- Diet
- Mountain reedbuck primarily feeds on grasses and herbs, favoring young and tender shoots. They are selective grazers, often choosing the most nutritious plants available.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, herbs
- Social Structure
- solitary or in small groups, typically consisting of a male and a few females.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 1
LC
VU
LC
50-90 kg
Weight
1.2-1.5 m
Length
0.8-1.0 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- reddish-brown coat with lighter underparts and white facial markings
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally larger and have longer horns than females.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
- Gestation Period
- 7-8 months
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks depending on local conditions
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 10,000-15,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to agriculture and human encroachment. Additionally, hunting and poaching can impact local populations.
- Predators
- Lions, leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs are known predators of the mountain reedbuck.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their speed and agility to escape predators, often using steep terrain to their advantage.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon