Species Overview

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Artiodactyla

Family: Bovidae

Genus: Taurotragus

Species: Taurotragus oryx (Common Eland)

Life Span: 15–20 years (in the wild)

Weight: 400–1,000 kg (880–2,200 lbs)

Height: 1.3–1.6 meters (4.3–5.2 feet) at the shoulder

Animal Behavior and Habits

Activity: Diurnal – active during the day, with peak activity in the cooler morning and evening hours.

Feeding Habits: Herbivores – feed on grasses, leaves, and shrubs.

Social Structure: Live in herds, typically ranging from 10 to 100 individuals; males may be solitary outside of the breeding season.

Hunting Approach: Spot-and-stalk hunting or ambush near waterholes or feeding areas.

Habitat and Environment

Preferred Habitat: Savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands.

Water Sources: Found near waterholes, rivers, and streams.

Best Hunting Locations: Open plains, near grazing areas, or close to water sources.

Tracks and Trails: Large, round tracks with deep hoofprints, larger than most antelopes.

Signs: Look for grazing herds, fresh tracks, or signs of disturbed grass.

Hunting Time

Ideal Hunting Times: Early morning and late afternoon (most active during these hours).

Breeding Season: Peak breeding in the rainy season (January–April). Males become more aggressive during this time.

Trophy Quality: Look for mature males with thick, spiral horns. Horn length of 70 cm (28 inches) or more is considered a good trophy.

Use of Scent Lures: Not typically necessary, but can be helpful when hunting males during the rut.