Sable Antelope

Hippotragus niger

Distribution and Habitat: They live in savannah regions in southern Africa. From Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, to Angola and Zaire. Their preferred places are a mixture of savannah, woods and pasture areas.

Diet: They are grazers, specialized in pastures with abundant grass. Sometimes they feel the need for salt in their diet, and are often found chewing bones in order to absorb salt and minerals.

Reproduction: The dominant male copulates with the females of his harem and actively defends its surrounding territory. The reproductive season is from May to July peaking in June. Gestation lasts between 8 and 9 months, with birth occurring when the rainy season is over. The parent and calf remain hidden for the first three weeks after birth. The calves are weaned at 6 months of age.

Behaviour: Sable antelopes can be active both during the day and at night, although they are more comfortable in the dark, as they have a dark coat. The herds are composed of 15 to 25 females and a dominant male. The dominant male will confront his opponents, kneeling with his elbows on the ground in a very violent fight.

Conservation Status: : Endangered (EN)

Classification

Class: Mammalia

Order: Artiodactyla

Family: Bovidae

Dimensions: 2 m – 2.5 m length

Weight: 220 kg – 250 kg

Lifespan: 20 years in captivity and 16 years in the wild

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