The eland is the largest species of antelope in the world, a herbivore native to the savannas and open woodlands of East and Southern Africa. This animal is known for its ox-like build and spiral horns, which are present on both males and females. Determining the weight of an eland is complicated because the term applies to two distinct species: the Common Eland and the Giant Eland. Significant variation exists between the sexes, as the male of each species is dramatically heavier than the female.
Weight of the Common Eland
The Common Eland (Taurotragus oryx) is the distributed species, found across much of Southern and Eastern Africa. Adult males, known as bulls, typically weigh between 500 and 600 kilograms (1,100 to 1,300 pounds). The maximum recorded weight for a bull approaches 942 kilograms (2,077 pounds).
The adult female is smaller, falling between 300 and 445 kilograms (660 to 981 pounds). This demonstrates sexual dimorphism, as the largest bulls can weigh up to 50% more than the cows. The bull’s bulk is concentrated in the neck and shoulders, used for dominance displays and competition.
Weight of the Giant Eland
The Giant Eland (Taurotragus derbianus) is slightly larger than its common counterpart. This species occupies a different geographical range, primarily in the open forests and savannas of West and Central Africa. Adult bulls range from about 400 kilograms up to 1,200 kilograms (880 to 2,650 pounds).
The maximum size for the Giant Eland exceeds that of the Common Eland, with some individuals recorded to weigh over 950 kilograms. Females are also large, generally weighing between 300 and 600 kilograms (660 to 1,320 pounds). This range is similar to the Common Eland female; the male’s superior size accounts for the “giant” designation.
How Eland Size Compares to Other Large Mammals
The size of a mature Eland bull is evident when considering its physical dimensions. The largest bulls reach up to 183 centimeters (6 feet) at the shoulder, comparable to a large domestic cow or a small horse. Their body length can stretch to nearly three meters (9.8 feet) from head to tail base.
The bulk of the Eland, particularly the male with its thick neck and large dewlap, gives it a bovine appearance. Despite this immense weight, the Eland is surprisingly agile and can clear a standing jump of over two meters (6.5 feet). This combination of heavy mass and athletic ability sets the Eland apart from many other large terrestrial mammals.