Sitatunga Tragelaphus Spekii

Sitatunga Antelope (tragelaphus spekil)

Habitat: Central Africa

Height: 45 to 50 inches at shoulder

Weight: 100 - 240 pounds

Gestation: 7 1/2 months

Longevity: Up to 19 years in captivity

Sitatunga have a coat which is dark brown in males and reddish brown in females. Both sexes have white stripes and spots as well as white splotches on their faces. Males have a mane as well as horns, which are twisted and can reach almost a yard in length.

The Sitatunga antelope lives in papyrus swamps and are very good swimmers. They take to the water to escape predators lying submerged with only their nostrils above the surface. Sitatunga have a water-proof coat which is dark brown in males and reddish brown in females. Their hooves are long and pointed which helps them deal with their swampy habitat. They are most active at dawn and dusk.  Only males have horns, which can reach up to a 3 feet in length.