Waterbuck

The waterbuck ( Kobus ellipsiprymnus) is a large antelope found widely in sub-Saharan Africa. It is placed in the genus Kobus of the family Bovidae. Characterized by a robust build, shaggy brown-grey to reddish-brown coat, and distinctive white markings on its rump that form a characteristic "toilet seat" shape, the waterbuck is strongly associated with habitats near water sources.

There are two subspecies recognized: the common waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus ellipsiprymnus) and the Defassa waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus defassa). These subspecies are distinguished by variations in coat colour and the shape of the white rump patch. The common waterbuck has the "toilet seat" marking completely encircling the tail, while the Defassa waterbuck's marking is typically a white patch that does not extend around the tail.

Male waterbucks are significantly larger than females and possess long, curved horns that can reach up to a meter in length. These horns are used in displays of dominance and for defense. Females are hornless.

Waterbucks are primarily grazers, feeding on grasses and reeds. They are typically found in grasslands, savannas, and riverine habitats, often near permanent water sources as their name suggests. Waterbucks are not particularly fast runners, and they tend to seek refuge in water when threatened by predators such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and African wild dogs.

They are gregarious animals, often forming herds of five to thirty individuals. These herds typically consist of females and their young, led by a dominant male. Young males may form bachelor herds.

Waterbuck populations are generally stable across their range, although they face threats from habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and human settlement, as well as poaching for bushmeat and trophies. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their habitat and managing hunting pressure.