| GREATER KUDU |
| Tragelaphus strepsiceros |
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Range: |
Eastern and Southern Africa and as North to Ethiopia |
The greater kudu is one of the largest antelopes in the world. They also produce one of the loudest antelope sounds: a gruff bark. This bark is issued within a herd of 6 – 20 adults and their calves when a predator approaches. The Greater Kudu is not a very fast animal so it relies on being able to jump over brush and other obstacles to outrun its pursuer. Males spar with spiral horns that interlock as they compete for a female’s attention. They push and twist with interlocked horns until one is knocked down and the victor is left standing. In the wild, they are hunted for their horns and meat and also suffer from habitat destruction. Fortunately, due to man-made irrigation systems, the Greater Kudu are now able to inhabit areas that were previously too dry and devoid of water for them to live.
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| Habitat: |
Dense bush or forest. |
| Diet: |
Leaves and other native vegetation. |
| Status: |
Least Concern (IUCN). |
| Approximate Dimensions of Adult: |
Weight: Male: 495-787 lb.
Female: 396-517 lb.
Height: 4-5 feet |
| Lifespan: |
15 years in the wild |
| Reproduction & Offspring: |
Gestation: 6-7 months; one offspring, rarely two. |
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