WATERBUCK
Kobus ellipsiprymnus
DESCRIPTION
The Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus) is a large antelope known for its distinctive ringed markings on its hindquarters. It is well-adapted to wetland habitats and is often found near rivers and lakes.
FUN FACTS
- Waterbucks are excellent swimmers and can submerge themselves to evade predators | The males have distinctive spiral horns that can grow up to 90 cm long | They are known to be very territorial during the breeding season
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight100-125 kg
Average Length1.5-2.0 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social StructureWaterbucks are typically found in small groups or herds, often consisting of females and their young, while males are more solitary.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks depending on region
- Habitat
- Waterbucks inhabit savannas, floodplains, and areas near water sources. They prefer habitats with dense vegetation for cover and access to drinking water.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Wetland
- Native Range
- Sub-Saharan Africa, primarily in the eastern and southern regions.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, South Africa, Namibia
- Diet
- Waterbucks are herbivores that primarily graze on grasses and aquatic plants. They are known to consume a variety of vegetation, particularly in areas with abundant water.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, aquatic plants
- Social Structure
- Waterbucks are typically found in small groups or herds, often consisting of females and their young, while males are more solitary.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-20
- Territorial
- 0
LC
VU
LC
100-125 kg
Weight
1.5-2.0 m
Length
1.2 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- Brownish-gray with white ringed markings on the hindquarters.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are larger and have long, spiral horns.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 230 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 1.5-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks depending on region
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable in many areas, but habitat loss poses a threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-100,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction and hunting. Waterbucks are also vulnerable to competition with livestock.
- Predators
- Lions, leopards, hyenas
- Defense Mechanisms
- Waterbucks can flee into water to escape predators and are known to be good swimmers.
- Compatible Animals
- Zebras, wildebeests, various antelope species
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon