Recognising the Eland
Key Features of the Common Eland
The Common Eland is the largest antelope in the world and is a prestigious member of the “Spiral Horn Grand Slam.” These majestic animals show clear sexual dimorphism, with females significantly smaller than males. Females weigh between 300 and 600 kilograms, measure 200 to 280 centimetres from the snout to the base of the tail, and stand 125 to 153 centimetres at the shoulder. Bulls weigh 400 to 942 kilograms, with some males reaching up to 1,000 kilograms. Males measure 240 to 345 centimetres in body length and stand 150 to 183 centimetres at the shoulder. The tail of both sexes measures 50 to 90 centimetres. Their coat varies across regions: northern animals often have torso stripes, leg markings, dark garters, and a spinal crest, while southern animals generally lack these features. Apart from a rough mane, the coat is smooth. Females have a tan coat, while males darken with age, developing a bluish-grey tinge. Some bulls show vertical white stripes on their sides, particularly in parts of the Karoo. As males grow older, their coat becomes more grey, and they develop dense hair on the forehead and a large dewlap on the throat.
Where Elands Live
How Elands Move and Mature in the Wild
Both sexes have horns with a steady spiral ridge, similar to the bushbuck. Horn buds are visible in newborns and grow rapidly during the first seven months. Male horns are thicker and shorter, ranging from 43 to 66 centimetres, while female horns measure 51 to 69 centimetres and have a tighter spiral. Males use their horns to wrestle and butt heads during the rut, while females use theirs to defend their young from predators. The common eland is the slowest antelope, reaching a peak speed of 40 kilometres per hour, which tires them quickly, yet they can maintain a 22-kilometre-per-hour trot for long periods. Elands are capable jumpers and can clear 2.5 metres from a standing start, with young elands reaching jumps of up to 3 metres. Their life expectancy ranges from 15 to 20 years, and some may live up to 25 years in captivity.
Eland on Ntoni
What Defines Eland Behaviour and Practical Hunting Needs
Eland herds produce a loud clicking sound when they walk. This sound results from the animal’s weight causing the two halves of the hoof to splay apart, snapping together again when the leg lifts. The clicking carries across distance and may function as a form of communication. For hunting, the preferred calibres for eland are the .30-06 Springfield or the .300 Winchester Magnum, although other calibres are also suitable.
