The eland, a large, cow-like antelope, is the world’s largest antelope species. Elands are native to Africa, thriving across diverse landscapes in eastern and southern regions. They inhabit open plains, savannas, and woodlands, where they are an integral part of the ecosystem.
Defining Features of the Eland Cow
Eland cows are smaller than males. They weigh 300 to 600 kilograms (660 to 1,320 pounds) and stand 1.25 to 1.5 meters (49 to 59 inches) at the shoulder. Their coat is tawny or pale yellow-brown, sometimes marked with faint vertical white stripes, and can turn bluish-gray with age.
A dewlap, a loose fold of skin, hangs from their throat, less pronounced than in bulls. Both sexes grow horns that spiral tightly from their heads. Eland cow horns are longer and more slender, reaching 51 to 69 centimeters (20 to 27 inches), contrasting with the thicker, shorter horns of bulls.
Maternal Role and Herd Dynamics
Eland cows are polyestrous, breeding throughout the year. They undergo a nine-month gestation, giving birth to a single calf. A pregnant cow separates from the herd to calve, seeking secluded areas like tall grasses or dense brush.
Newborn calves are precocial, standing and suckling within an hour of birth. For about a week, the calf remains hidden while its mother forages nearby, returning to nurse. After this, cows introduce their calves to the herd, forming “nursery herds” or “crèches.” These groups of cows and young offer communal care, allowing mothers to forage while other adults watch over the calves.
Eland Species and Human Interaction
The eland family includes two species: the Common Eland (Taurotragus oryx) and the Giant Eland (Taurotragus derbianus). The Giant Eland is slightly larger than the Common Eland. While the Common Eland is classified as “Least Concern,” its populations have declined due to hunting and habitat loss. The Giant Eland is listed as “Vulnerable.”
Elands have been semi-domesticated in some regions, including southern Africa and parts of Europe. Eland cows are valued for their milk, which has higher protein and fat content than dairy cow milk and remains fresh longer without refrigeration. Their lean meat is also prized, leading to interest in them as an alternative livestock species due to their resilience to drought and disease.