The nyala (or Tragelaphus angasii) is a secretive antelope that lives in the thick undergrowth of the South-Eastern African savannah. They are sexually dimorphic, with males much larger than females; the former has a dark grey shaggy coat, yellow legs and twisted, yellow tipped horns, whereas the latter are tan in colour. Both sexes also have vertical white stripes on their back. Males measure between 0.9 and 1.1m tall, 1.35 to 1.95m long, and weigh 98 to 125 kg. Females are between 0.75 and 0.9m tall, 1.35m to 1.95m long, and weigh between 50 and 68kg.
Latin Name
Tragelaphus angasii
Featured
false
Slug
nyala
Site
Thumbnail
Image
Conservation Status
Animal Category
Region
Animal Facts
Unlike many antelope species, nyala are extremely reliant on water and need to drink daily. They always live near a water source.
Nyala produce a dog-like bark to alert other group members of danger.
Nyala males are called 'bulls' and nyala females are called 'ewes'. This is because of the large size difference between sexes in this species. The terms 'bull' and 'doe' are used for large antelope species, and 'ram' and 'ewe' for small antelope species.
Nyala are crepuscular animals; they forage during dusk and dawn, and rest and sleep during the heat of the day.
Nyala have excellent hearing and will listen for the warning calls of baboons and impala to remain aware of threats.