Southern reedbuck
A species of Reedbucks, Also known as Common reedbuck Scientific name : Redunca arundinum Genus : Reedbucks
Southern reedbuck, A species of Reedbucks
Also known as:
Common reedbuck
Scientific name: Redunca arundinum
Genus: Reedbucks
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The southern reedbuck is larger than the other species in Redunca, namely R. redunca (Bohor reedbuck) and R. fulvorufula (mountain reedbuck). It stands 80–90 cm (31–35 in) at the shoulder. Females weigh 48 kg (106 lb), while the males weigh 68 kg (150 lb). It has distinctive dark lines running down the front of each of its forelegs and lower hindlegs and whitish rings around the eyes. It has a lifespan of 10 years. The coat is silky and almost woolly. The color of its coat ranges between light- and greyish-brown, and may be lighter on the neck and chest. A small, black, bare glandular patch can be noticed at the base of each ear. White fur covers the underparts and the areas near the lips and chin. The tail is white underside, and appears short and bushy. Southern reedbucks measure an average of 85 cm (33 in) at the shoulder. Females lack horns. Males bear forward-curving horns, about 35–45 cm (14–18 in) long, with the base having a distinct band of pale, rubbery tissue.
General Info
Lifespan
10-12 years
Diet
Southern reedbuck principally subsists on grasses, thoroughly consuming the entire plant including stems and seeds. Occasionally, it supplements its diet with fresh leaves and shoots, preferring tender, water-rich vegetation.
Appearance
Southern reedbuck is a medium-sized antelope with a slender, streamlined body covered in soft fur. Its coat is primarily brown, lightening to a creamy white on the belly. Both sexes have a dark, narrow stripe running from the forehead to the nose. Males, slightly larger than females, possess short, sharp, forward-curving horns. Its long, tail ends in a tuft of black hair. No noticeable variations in appearance exist between individuals or age groups.
Behavior
Southern reedbuck is a social species, forming mixed-sex herds. This animal exhibits diurnal behavior, with increased activity during the cooler morning and late afternoon hours. Southern reedbuck exhibits notable grazing behavior, feeding primarily on grasses. Territoriality is typically displayed by males during the mating season, with vocalizations and physical contests.
Population
Stable
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original