Common Elandエランド

Species Data

Classification

Cetartiodactyla / Bovidae Source

Distribution

The common eland is native to 15 African countries across East and Southern Africa, from Ethiopia and South Sudan southward through Tanzania, Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Source

Did You Know?

• Like camels, common elands can let their body temperature drop by up to 7°C to reduce water loss through evaporation, an adaptation to dry habitats. Source
• The name 'eland' comes from the Dutch word for 'elk,' given by Dutch settlers in South Africa who likened this large antelope to the elk they knew from Europe. Source
• Common elands can jump up to 2.5 m from a standing position, with young individuals reaching as high as 3 m. Source

FAQ

How big is a common eland?

It is one of the largest antelope species, with males reaching a body length of about 240 to 345 cm and weighing up to 942 kg, while females are notably smaller at around 317 to 470 kg. Source

How does the common eland survive hot, dry climates?

It can let its body temperature fluctuate by up to 7°C, similar to a camel, which reduces water loss through sweating and evaporation. Source

Where does the name 'eland' come from?

It derives from the Dutch word for 'elk.' Dutch settlers in South Africa named the antelope after the elk they were familiar with in Europe. Source