Lincoln Park Zoo

Common name: Sable antelope
Latin Name: Hippotragus niger

Class: Mammals
Order:    Artiodactyla

Description
The sable antelope can reach nearly five feet in height and weigh more than 500 pounds. The species is known for its imposing, backward-curved spiral horns, which can be several feet long. Males have larger horns than females, and they can also be distinguished by their darker coat.

Range
This herd species ranges widely across south-central Africa.

Status
The species is not threatened in the wild, although habitat loss is a potential concern.

Habitat
Sable antelope favor lightly wooded grasslands.

Niche
A grazing species, the sable antelope feeds on grasses and herbs. They are particular in their plant selection, favoring grasses of moderate height.

Life History
Sable antelope live in herds composed of a dominant male, 15–25 females and their offspring. Males establish breeding territories to secure the right to breed females; dominant males will wrestle challengers with their large horns, although these fights are rarely fatal. After giving birth, females remain hidden with their young in tall grasses for up to a week.

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