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Roan antelope, the fourth largest antelope in Africa, are usually active in the morning, late afternoon and evening. They are associated with woodland savannas, but are less a woodland and more of a grassland species. They are a selective grazer on perennial grasses and the herds will concentrate near water during the dry season.
Like most horse antelope, they are gregarious and territorial. Females occupy a home range encompassing the territories of several males. Immature males associate in bachelor herds. Herd sizes are smaller in the roan antelope than in other members of this tribe and they maintain a greater individual distance.
A female dominance hierarchy, with the oldest cows holding the highest ranks, is maintained by frequent, low intensity aggression. Occasionally young animals will form groups that can stay separated from groups of older animals, including their mothers, for hours up to days at a time. This suggests that bonds between calves may be stronger than the mother/offspring bond. Immature males are tolerated by the females until they are about 2-2.5 years old. |
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STATUS:
Low risk/conservation dependent |
ORIGIN:
Central and southern Africa |
HEIGHT:
4.6-5.3’ at shoulder |
WEIGHT:
495-660 pounds |
CHARACTERISTICS:
Upperparts are roan colored, under parts are white, facial mask, horns found in both sexes |
Gestation/offspring/birthdays:
9-9.5 months/1/year round |
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR:
Harem groups, single dominant male, 6-15 animals |
LIFESPAN:
Up to 17 years |
HABITAT:
Lightly wooded country and grasslands |
FOOD:
Medium high grasses, rarely leaves |
PREDATORS:
Lion, leopard, spotted hyena, Cape hunting dog |
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