Kudu
He greater kudu is the tallest antelope after the eland;
males stand 130–150 cm (51–59 inches) but are narrow-bodied, weighing
on average 257 kg (567 pounds), with a maximum of 315 kg (694 pounds).
Females average 120 cm (47 inches) and 170 kg (370 pounds). Colour
varies from reddish brown to blue-gray with white markings, an
adaptation for concealment that includes 6–10 vertical torso stripes, a
short spinal crest, a nose chevron, and small cheek patches. The greater
kudu also has white forelegs with dark garters and a black-tipped tail.
Males have a beard, turn darker with age, and possess the longest horns
of any antelope: 120–180 cm (47–71 inches) along the curve. These horns
take six years of growth to complete two full turns; the horn’s size
and shape keep pace with and advertise the dominance status of the
bearer.
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