Waterbuck/ Waterbok

Description:

This is a large, robust antelope. Bulls have a shoulder height of 1.4 metres and can weigh up to 260 Kg. Cows are smaller than bulls. Waterbucks have a brownish–grey shaggy coat. The eyes and nose are patched with white, and there is a white collar under the throat. The rump has a characteristic white ring. The large rounded ears are a prominent feature. Only the bulls have long, forward curved horns. Both sexes emit a, not unpleasant, musky smell which normally lingers at resting sites.

Habitat:

Inhabits only well watered areas, with a strong predilection for dense woody vegetation and good quality medium to tall grasses. The Waterbuck will on occasion venture into open woodlands and floodplains.In South Africa it is distributed along the major drainage systems of Mpumalanga, Northern Province and northern KwaZulu-Natal. Recently re-introduced at St Lucia and Itala game reserves in KwaZulu-Natal.

Notes:

Spotted in the rhino and lion park.