Giant Eland: a two-minute wildlife lesson

Antelopes of Africa · day 2 of 7

Five facts

1. The giant eland is the world's largest antelope. A big male can weigh up to 1,200 kg.
2. Its 'giant' name is really about its horns, not its body: it is only a little bigger than the common eland.
3. Heavy as it is, it can run at over 70 km/h and easily leap over a 1.5 m barrier.
4. If a bull senses danger, he gives deep barks as he moves away, again and again, until the whole herd knows.
5. To save water, it rests by day and feeds at night, so it needs less water to cool down. Its dung is also very dry.

The quiz

1. What record does the giant eland hold?

• Fastest antelope
• Smallest antelope
• Largest antelope in the world (correct)
• Longest-lived antelope

It is a bit larger on average than the common eland, making it the biggest antelope.

2. What does 'giant' in its name really refer to?

• Its large horns (correct)
• Its long tail
• Its huge herds
• Its loud voice

The word 'giant' actually refers to its large horns.

3. How high can a giant eland easily jump?

• 10 cm
• 30 cm
• 1.5 m (correct)
• 8 m

Despite its size, it easily clears 1.5 m.

4. How does a giant eland bull warn the herd of danger?

• He stamps on the ground
• He hides in the bushes
• He whistles through his nose
• He gives deep barks again and again (correct)

He barks deeply while leaving, repeating it until the whole herd is aware.

5. When does the giant eland feed, to save water?

• At noon
• At night (correct)
• Only in the rain
• Only at sunrise

It rests by day and feeds at night, so it needs less water to cool down.

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