ANIMAL HIGHLIGHT

The eland is the largest species of antelope in the world, characterized by its massive, ox-like build and spiraled horns found on both males and females. Native to Africa, there are two distinct species: the Common Eland (Taurotragus oryx) and the Giant Eland(Taurotragus derbianus). Physical Characteristics

• Size and Weight: Adult males are significantly larger than females, often weighing up to 2,200 lbs (1,000 kg) and standing up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) at the shoulder.
• Appearance: They typically have a tawny or fawn-colored coat with thin, vertical white stripes on their sides. As males age, their coats often turn a bluish-gray color.
• Horns: Both sexes possess horns that grow in a tight spiral pattern, though female horns are generally thinner and can be longer than those of males.
• Dewlap: Males develop a prominent fold of skin under the throat, known as a dewlap, which is believed to aid in thermoregulation and heat dissipation. 

Key Behaviors

• "Knee Clicking": When walking, elands produce a distinct clicking sound. While once thought to be the hooves snapping together, researchers now believe it is caused by tendons or joints in the foreleg slipping over bone.
• Jumping Ability: Despite their immense bulk, elands are exceptional jumpers, capable of clearing heights of up to 8 to 10 feet (2.5 to 3 meters) from a standing start.
• Social Structure: They are highly social and live in herds that can range from a few dozen to over 500 individuals. Calves are often raised in communal "nursery herds".
• Diet: They are mixed feeders, both browsing on leaves and shrubs and grazing on grasses depending on the season. 

Species and Range

• Common Eland: Found across the open plains, savannas, and woodlands of Eastern and Southern Africa.
• Giant Eland: Also known as Lord Derby's eland, they primarily inhabit the savannas and woodlands of Central and Western Africa. The western subspecies is currently listed as Critically Endangered. 

Relationship with HumansElands have a long history with humans, appearing frequently in African rock art. Due to their docile nature and high-quality milk—which is much richer in fat and protein than cow's milk and has a longer shelf life—they have been successfully domesticated in parts of South Africa and Russia.