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Facts about this animal

Kudu, a very unique and beautiful animal, belongs to the group of antelopes. The range of kudu stretches from eastern to southern areas, and includes Ethiopia, Tanzania, Eritrea, Kenya, Zambia, Angola, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe.

Lesser kudu and greater kudu are the two species belonging to the kudu family. These species have almost similar features, except their sizes as lesser kudu are smaller than greater kudu. Kudu are diurnal that means they remain active in the day and sleep at night while during summers they usually prefer to stay hidden at only one area in the woodland.

Areas with abundant supply of water like rocky hillsides and thick bushveld are their preferred places. Their presence around these areas invites predators like, lions, leopards, and hunting dogs. But, the whole herd is alerted when any of these senses an attack from the predators. Kudu don - t have enough stamina to run fast and for a long time, so they hide themselves in bushes and keep on standing still.

The hierarchy among kudu males is usually determined by age and size. Males of about the same size and age engage in sparring contests in which they approach one another slowly, lock horns and push back and forth until one gives up. Usually no serious injuries result, but remains of animals have been found where the two combatants had locked horns in such a way that they could not disengage. Dominance is usually quickly and peacefully determined by a lateral display in which one male stands sideways in front of the other and makes himself look as large as possible. If the other is suitably impressed, dominance is established.

Factsheet

Scientific classification

• Swahili Name: Tandala Mkubwa and Tandala Ndogo
• Scientific Name: Tragelaphus strepsiceros
• Size: 140cm (greater kudu)
• Weight: 250kgs (greater kudu)
• Lifespan: 7 to 8 years in the wild and up to 23 years in captivity
• Habitat: Dense bush or forest
• Diet: Browser
• Gestation: Up to 9 months
• Predators: leopards, hunting dogs, spotted hyenas, humans

Conservation status: Least concern / abundant