The Eland, an ox-like antelope, holds the title of the world’s largest antelope and is part of the spiral-horned subfamily, alongside the lesser and greater Kudu and bushbuck. Elands are classified into two groups: the giant Eland, scientifically known as Taurotragus derbianus, found in western and central Africa, and the common Eland, also known as Taurotragus oryx, prevalent in southern and eastern African countries like Botswana and Kenya. Eland bulls weigh approximately 900 kilograms and stand at a shoulder height of around 1.7 meters. They primarily inhabit montane grasslands and semi-desert regions, with females being smaller than males. Despite being shy creatures, they are easily startled by disturbances. Here are intriguing facts about Elands:

1. Impressive Jumping Ability: Despite their massive size, Elands possess remarkable jumping prowess, effortlessly maneuvering through a two-meter fence without difficulty.
2. Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Historically, Elands served as both sustenance and spiritual inspiration for prominent hunters in southern Africa. The Zulu culture in South Africa reveres these antelopes.
3. Distinctive Clicking Sound: As Elands move closer in the nearby bush, their hooves produce a distinctive clicking sound as they come together, a mechanism that supports the weight of these fascinating animals.
4. Adaptability and Domestication: Common Elands easily acclimate to the African environment, akin to cattle, and can be domesticated. They provide meat and milk, which is consumed by both Russians and South Africans. Female Elands can produce up to 7 kilograms of milk per day, featuring higher fat content than cow’s milk.
5. The Lord Derby Eland: Also known as the Giant Eland, this subspecies bears the name in honor of Edward Smith Stanley, the 13th Earl of Derby. The animal was first observed in England between 1835 and 1851. Lord Derby even dispatched botanist Joseph Burke to South Africa to collect animals for his museum and menagerie.

Where to see Elands in Uganda

In Uganda, elands can be spotted primarily in two national parks, during a game drive:

1. Kidepo Valley National Park: Located in northeastern Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is known for its diverse wildlife population, including elands. The park’s savannah grasslands and rugged landscapes provide a suitable habitat for these majestic antelopes. Game drives and guided safaris within the park offer opportunities to see elands among other wildlife species.
2. Lake Mburo National Park: While elands are not as commonly seen here compared to some other species, Lake Mburo National Park in western Uganda does have a population of elands. The park’s acacia woodlands and grassy plains are home to various antelope species, including elands, making it possible to encounter them during safaris and game drives.

Remember, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but these national parks offer habitats conducive to elands, increasing the chances of encountering these impressive antelopes during visits and safaris.