Updated
The common eland is a huge, ox-like antelope, with bulls weighing up to about 900 kg, a hanging dewlap and short, tightly spiralled horns on both sexes. Only the giant eland of West and Central Africa is larger. In Uganda, common elands live in Lake Mburo National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park, usually in small, wary herds.
Habits
Despite their size, elands are agile and can clear a fence of around 2 m from a standing start. They browse leaves and shoots as well as grazing, which helps them survive dry seasons, and they get much of their water from food. A clicking sound from the knees of large bulls is thought to signal size to rivals. Herds can travel long distances and are shy of vehicles.
Elands in Uganda
Lake Mburo has the most accessible population, and elands are among the species that make it different from other Ugandan parks, along with zebras and impalas. In Kidepo they share the Narus and Kidepo valleys with buffaloes, zebras and hartebeest. They were more widespread in the past but declined with hunting and loss of grassland.
Where to see it
Game drives and walking safaris in Lake Mburo give the best chances, though elands often keep their distance. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to Lake Mburo, Kidepo game drives, the impala and Jackson’s hartebeest.
Frequently asked questions
The giant eland is slightly larger; the common eland, found in Uganda, is second.
In Lake Mburo and Kidepo Valley national parks.
Bulls can weigh up to about 900 kg.
Yes. They can clear around 2 m from a standing start.
