Greater kudu
A species of Elands Scientific name : Tragelaphus strepsiceros strepsiceros Genus : Elands
Greater kudu, A species of Elands
Scientific name: Tragelaphus strepsiceros strepsiceros
Genus: Elands
Content
Description General Info
Description
Greater kudu is known for its exceptional climbing abilities, a distinctive trait among its ungulate peers. Exploiting both lowland and mountaintop habitats, it has developed a physiological resilience to diverse climatic conditions. Its foraging tactics, marked by selective browsing, have a notable impact on plant unifrondescence in its ecosystem. Further, this solitary animal exhibits territorial behavior, using scent markings as a primary defense mechanism.
General Info
Lifespan
10-20 years
Diet
Greater kudu is primarily a browser, consuming leaves, shoots, and fruits. This species is also known to feed on herbs and engages in geophagy, consuming soil minerals during the dry season.
Appearance
The greater kudu is a sizeable, robust antelope with patches of grey and white fur that stands 4-5 feet tall. It boasts striking features like spiral twisted horns, mainly in males, and noticeable vertical white stripes dotted across its body. Females tend to be a lighter grey and usually lack horns. Both sexes have a distinctive bushy tail with a white underside.
Behavior
Greater kudu are solitary browsers with nocturnal habits, highly adapted to evasion and camouflage. Males express territorial behavior through urine-marking and are more defensive during mating season. Females are typically more tolerant of conspecifics. With remarkable sensory awareness and nimbleness, they escape potential threats, displaying excellent survival adaptations.