Head to head
Eland vs Greater Kudu
The eland and greater kudu are both large spiral-horned antelope from the same broader family group, but their overall bulk and horn shape set them clearly apart.
| Eland | Greater Kudu | |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific name | Taurotragus oryx | Tragelaphus strepsiceros |
| Relative size | Largest antelope in the world | Large, but lighter than the eland |
| Horns | Tightly wound spirals (both sexes) | Long, loose spirals (males only) |
| Notable trait | Audible tendon clicking while walking | Jumps fences over two metres high |
| Social structure | Loosely structured herds | More solitary |
| Conservation status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Population trend | Decreasing | Stable |
| Habitat | Savanna, grassland | Savanna, forest |
Eland vs Greater Kudu: common questions
Which is bigger, the eland or the greater kudu?
The eland is bigger, the largest antelope species in the world at up to around 900 kilograms, while the greater kudu is somewhat lighter and more lightly built despite still ranking among Africa's larger antelope.
How do the horns of the eland and greater kudu differ?
The eland has tightly, closely wound spiral horns present on both sexes, while the greater kudu has much longer, looser spiralled horns found only on males, capable of completing two and a half full twists.
Do both the eland and greater kudu have a signature physical trait?
Yes, the eland is known for an audible clicking sound from its leg tendons while walking, while the greater kudu is known for its ability to jump fences well over two metres high, two very different but equally distinctive traits.