Southern+Reedbuck

The reedbuck is an African breed of antelope that splits into three subspecies. These subspecies include the southern reedbuck, the mountain reedbuck, and the bohor reedbuck. The southern reedbuck (also known as the common reedbuck), is the largest species in the genus Redunca. The animal is about 31-35 inches tall and have an average body mass of 150 lbs for males and 106 lbs for females. The animal is covered in a coat of reddish brown fur, with a white underside and white bushy tail. Perhaps the most fascinating thing about the southern reedbuck’s appearance is it’s horns. The male reedbuck bears forward curving horns that range in height to 14-18 in tall made with thick rubbery tissues. Females however, do not bear horns at all.

Southern reedbucks commonly live in pairs or alone. Yet sometimes they form herds of about 20 other animals. The reedbucks mock what we would define as a rather lazy behavior, laying in the sun throughout the entire day. At either sunrise or sunset, they start to go searching for their food, which consists of grasses, herbs, and reeds. The older males are permanently territorial and live with a single female to prevent fights with other males.

As from the name “southern reedbuck” the animal mostly resides in the southern parts of Africa. However they do have a large distribution populating from Gabon and Tanzania to South Africa. The animal mates throughout all times of the year, though most matings occur when during the transition of spring into summer. Also known as the “hot and wet” season. A mother does not stay with her offspring at all times, but visits it once a day for about 30 minutes. Female reedbucks mature at about two years old and leave their parents almost instantly after doing so. Males mature at a slightly older age.

Predators of the reedbuck include lions, African wild dogs, jackals, and even baboons. Although they have a good amount of predators, the only risk big enough to put the southern reedbuck at a risk are humans, who may kill the animal for its horns and fur. As of now, the southern reedbuck is at a status of “least concerned” on the scale of conservation statuses.