Common Eland
Africa's largest antelope
The eland stands as the largest antelope on the African continent, an ox-like giant with spiral horns that has earned its place as one of the most prized plains game trophies. Despite its massive size, the eland is an exceptionally wary and athletic animal that challenges even experienced hunters.
Shoulder Height
5.25 - 6 ft (1.6-1.8m)
Weight (Bulls)
880 - 2,200 lbs
SCI Minimum
77"
Rowland Ward Min
35"
Identification
- • Tawny/fawn coat with faint white stripes
- • Prominent dewlap under throat
- • Spiral horns on both sexes
- • Old bulls turn grey ("blue bulls")
- • Black forehead tuft on mature males
Habitat & Range
- • Light woodland and open plains
- • Montane grasslands up to high altitudes
- • Semi-arid savanna regions
- • Eastern and southern Africa
- • Great wanderers covering vast distances
Trophy Standards
- • SCI Minimum: 77"
- • SCI Record: 116 2/8" (Livingstone's)
- • Rowland Ward Min: 35"
- • RW Record: 47 1/2" (Cape)
- • Good horn length: 34"+
Did You Know?
Despite being Africa's largest antelope, the eland is relatively slow, running only about 25 mph (40 kph). However, it can jump 3 meters (10 feet) from a standing start. Old bulls often develop a distinctive grey-blue coloration and are referred to as "blue bulls" by hunters. The clicking sound made by walking eland, caused by tendons slipping over bones, can be heard from hundreds of meters away.
Africa's Largest Antelope
The common eland (Taurotragus oryx) stands as the undisputed king of African antelopes by size. These magnificent ox-like animals can weigh up to a ton, with mature bulls reaching 882-2,200 lbs (400-1,000 kg). Despite their bulk, eland are remarkably athletic and exceptionally wary, making them one of the most challenging plains game species to hunt successfully.
Subspecies
Cape Eland
T. oryx oryx - Southern Africa's most common subspecies. Paler coloration with indistinct markings. Found throughout South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. SCI minimum 77", RW minimum 35".
Livingstone's Eland
T. oryx livingstonii - Found in Zambia, Malawi, and parts of Zimbabwe. Generally has more distinct striping than Cape eland. SCI minimum 79", RW minimum 35".
Patterson's/East African Eland
T. oryx pattersonianus - Found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Generally smaller with more prominent striping. SCI minimum 74", RW minimum 33".
Physical Characteristics
Bulls
- • Weight: 882-2,200 lbs (400-1,000 kg)
- • Shoulder height: 5.25-6 ft (1.6-1.8 m)
- • Horn length: up to 4 ft (1.2 m)
- • Develop dewlap and dark neck with age
- • Black forehead tuft on mature bulls
- • Turn grey-blue with age ("blue bulls")
Cows
- • Weight: 660-1,320 lbs (300-600 kg)
- • Shoulder height: 4.1-5 ft (1.25-1.5 m)
- • Horn length: up to 2.2 ft (67 cm)
- • Slimmer build throughout life
- • Horns longer and thinner than bulls
- • Mature at 4 years vs 7 for bulls
Behavior & Habits
Eland are highly social animals that live in herds ranging from small groups to aggregations of hundreds. They are great wanderers, covering vast distances in search of food and water, which can make locating them challenging. Unlike many antelope, eland are primarily browsers rather than grazers, preferring leaves, shoots, and fruits.
- Feeding: Most active during early morning and late evening
- Movement: Can travel 20+ miles in a day when foraging
- Alertness: Exceptionally wary with excellent senses
- Social: Bulls maintain strict hierarchy within herds
- Sound: Tendons make distinctive clicking sound when walking
Trophy Assessment
| Standard | Rowland Ward | SCI |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Entry (Cape) | 35" | 77" |
| Record (Cape) | 47 1/2" | 116 2/8" |
| Good Trophy | 34"+ | 77"+ |
| Bow Minimum (SCI) | - | 69" |
Trophy Judging Tips
Horn mass and spiral development are key indicators of trophy quality. Older bulls typically have heavier, more worn horns with less prominent spiraling. The grey-blue coloration ("blue bull") indicates a mature animal. A prominent dewlap and thick neck further confirm maturity. Horns become progressively heavier with age, even as length may wear down from rubbing.
Seasons & Prime Hunting Regions
Primary Season
Eland can be hunted year-round in most southern African countries, though the dry season (May-October) is generally preferred. Cooler temperatures make for better hunting conditions, and animals concentrate around water sources.
South Africa
Eastern Cape
Traditional eland country with excellent populations on large private reserves. The mountainous terrain and valley bushveld provide classic spot-and-stalk hunting. Many free-range hunting opportunities.
Season: Year-round; Best: April - September
Limpopo Province
Bushveld habitat with good eland numbers. Warmer climate means earlier morning and later evening hunting. Often combined with other plains game species. Mix of high-fence and low-fence operations.
Season: Year-round; Best: May - August
Free State
Open grassland and agricultural areas with introduced eland populations. Good visibility for spotting and stalking. Often combined with blesbuck, springbuck hunting. Cooler winters with frost.
Season: Year-round; Best: May - August
KwaZulu-Natal
Diverse habitat from coastal plains to mountains. Highland areas offer challenging hunting in broken terrain. Midlands region particularly productive for eland.
Season: Year-round; Best: April - August
Other African Destinations
Namibia
Excellent eland hunting in the central and eastern regions. Semi-arid terrain requires patience and long-range capability. Often combined with oryx and kudu. Primarily free-range hunting on vast conservancies.
Zimbabwe
Good eland populations in the Midlands and Matabeleland regions. Large concessions offer true wilderness hunting. Often combined with buffalo and other dangerous game safaris.
Zambia
Home to Livingstone's eland subspecies. Game Management Areas offer quality hunting. Typically combined with broader safari packages. July-October best for eland.
Tanzania
Patterson's (East African) eland found throughout hunting blocks. Often encountered while hunting other species. July-November season. Premium safari destination.
Hunt Duration
At least 3 days should be allocated for eland hunting. These are alert animals that cover vast distances, and there is always an element of luck in finding them in the first place. Dedicated eland hunts of 5-7 days provide the best chance of securing a quality trophy bull. Eland are often combined with other plains game on 7-10 day safari packages.
Hunting Techniques
The Challenge
Despite their bulk, eland are exceptionally alert animals with keen senses. Their nomadic nature means they may be in a different area entirely from one day to the next. They possess remarkable stamina and can cover long distances when pursued without tiring. This is not an easy hunt.
Spot and Stalk
The primary method for eland hunting involves glassing from elevated vantage points in early morning and late evening when animals are most active and visible.
The Sequence
- 1. Locate: Glass from elevated positions (kopjes, ridges, vehicles) at dawn
- 2. Plan: Study terrain, wind direction, and animal movement patterns
- 3. Approach: Use cover and terrain features to close distance
- 4. Wait: Be patient; eland often feed toward cover as sun rises
- 5. Shoot: Wait for broadside shot opportunity at reasonable range
- 6. Follow-up: Be prepared for tracking; even well-hit eland can travel
Ambush at Water
During the dry season, ambush hunting at waterholes becomes effective. Eland must drink regularly and visit water sources, typically in early morning or late afternoon. This method requires patience and the right wind conditions, but can produce excellent opportunities on mature bulls.
Tracking
In areas with soft substrate, tracking fresh eland spoor can be productive. Experienced trackers can identify bull tracks by size and follow herds to catch up during midday rest periods.
Shot Placement
Critical Information
Shot placement on eland must be precise. These are massive animals with heavy bone structure. A poorly placed shot can result in a long and difficult follow-up.
Broadside Shot (Preferred)
Aim at the center of the shoulder, approximately one-third of the way up the body. This targets both heart and lungs for a quick, humane kill. This is the safest and most effective shot angle.
Quartering Away
Aim slightly to the rear of the normal aiming point, directing the bullet to exit through the opposite shoulder. Requires precise angle judgment.
Quartering Toward
Aim slightly forward of the shoulder crease. Be aware of the heavy shoulder bones that can deflect projectiles if angle is too steep.
Frontal Shot
Not recommended unless no other option. Dense bone structures can deflect bullets. Requires exceptional accuracy and proper bullet construction.
Avoid
Never attempt head or neck shots on eland. The risk of wounding and losing the animal is too high. These are large, tough animals that deserve a clean, ethical shot to the vitals.
Recommended Equipment
Rifles & Calibers
Eland are big animals requiring adequate caliber. While they are plains game, their size demands respect. Premium bullets with controlled expansion are essential.
Minimum Recommended
- • .30-06 Springfield (180gr+ bullets)
- • 7mm Remington Magnum
- • .308 Winchester (premium bullets)
- • Note: Minimum, not ideal
Ideal Choices
- • .300 Winchester Magnum
- • .338 Winchester Magnum
- • .375 H&H Magnum
- • 8mm Remington Magnum
Bullet Selection Critical
Use premium controlled-expansion bullets (Swift A-Frame, Nosler Partition, Barnes TSX/TTSX, Hornady DGX). Standard cup-and-core bullets may not provide adequate penetration on these massive animals. Bullet construction is as important as caliber.
Bow Hunting
Eland can be bow hunted, typically from blinds at water sources. Requirements are stringent due to the animal's size:
- • Minimum draw weight: 60 lbs kinetic energy
- • Arrow weight: 450 grains minimum
- • Broadheads: Cut-on-contact or fixed blade, 100+ grains
- • Shot distance: 25-40 yards maximum
- • SCI bow minimum: 69"
Optics
Binoculars
- • 10x42 or 8x42 quality glass
- • Essential for locating herds
- • Compact 8x32 for backup
- • Harness system for hands-free carry
Rifle Scope
- • Variable 3-9x40 or 4-12x50
- • Quality glass for low-light conditions
- • Reliable scope for field conditions
- • Duplex or ballistic reticle
Clothing & Gear
Clothing
- ☐ Neutral colors (khaki, olive, brown)
- ☐ Layering system for temperature swings
- ☐ Long sleeves for sun and thorns
- ☐ Quality hiking pants
- ☐ Wide-brimmed hat
Footwear
- ☐ Comfortable hiking boots
- ☐ Ankle support essential
- ☐ Break in before safari
- ☐ Second pair as backup
- ☐ Quality hiking socks
Field Gear
- ☐ Day pack
- ☐ Water bottles (hydration crucial)
- ☐ Shooting sticks
- ☐ Rangefinder
- ☐ Sunscreen and lip balm
Safari Preparation
Physical Conditioning
Fitness Requirements
Eland hunting can be physically demanding, especially when tracking or following wounded animals. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your hunt. If hunting in large concessions where tracking is required, getting into shape before departure is essential.
- Cardiovascular: Walk 3-5 miles several times weekly
- Leg strength: Hills, stairs, or incline work
- Shooting practice: Off sticks at various ranges to 300 yards
- Heat acclimatization: Prepare for African temperatures
- Altitude: Some areas are 4,000-6,000 ft; allow for adjustment
Shooting Practice
Pre-Safari Range Work
- • Confirm zero at 100 yards, then verify at 200-300 yards
- • Practice shooting from sticks (standing, sitting, kneeling)
- • Know your hold-over or dial for shots to 300 yards
- • Practice with the same ammunition you'll use on safari
- • Be comfortable making shots under time pressure
- • If scope adjustments needed at close range, know your point-blank range
Planning Timeline
12+ Months Before
- ☐ Research and book outfitter
- ☐ Determine dates and species to hunt
- ☐ Check passport validity (6+ months)
- ☐ Begin fitness program
6 Months Before
- ☐ Book flights
- ☐ Begin rifle import permit process
- ☐ Arrange travel insurance
- ☐ Schedule travel medicine consultation
3 Months Before
- ☐ Intensify shooting practice
- ☐ Finalize rifle and ammunition selection
- ☐ Confirm all bookings
- ☐ Begin gear assembly
1 Month Before
- ☐ Final rifle zero confirmation
- ☐ Pack and weigh luggage
- ☐ Copy all documents
- ☐ Confirm transfers and logistics
What to Expect
Typical Eland Hunt Day
Eland hunting typically involves early starts and late finishes:
- • 4:30-5:00 AM: Wake up, light breakfast
- • 5:30 AM: Leave camp before first light
- • Dawn-10:00 AM: Prime hunting hours, glassing, stalking
- • 10:00 AM-3:00 PM: Return to camp, lunch, rest
- • 3:30-Dark: Afternoon hunt, waterholes, evening activity
- • Evening: Dinner, discuss next day's strategy
Pro Tips for Success
Glass Early, Glass Often
Success on eland depends heavily on locating animals first. Spend time glassing from elevated positions at first light. Quality binoculars pay dividends. Patient glassing prevents walking into and spooking animals.
Age Trumps Horn Length
Mature "blue bulls" are the ultimate trophy despite potentially shorter horns. The grey coloration, massive dewlap, thick neck, and worn horn bases indicate an old bull. These are the animals to hunt.
Listen for the Click
Eland make a distinctive clicking sound when walking, caused by tendons slipping over bones. In quiet conditions, this can be heard from several hundred meters. Use this to locate animals in thick bush.
Don't Rush the Shot
A wounded eland can travel miles. Wait for a clear broadside shot at reasonable range. Use shooting sticks for stability. Take the time to make the first shot count. Follow-up shots are often running shots.
Use Adequate Caliber
Bring enough gun. While a .30-06 with premium bullets will work, a .300 Win Mag or larger provides better terminal performance. Bullet construction matters as much as caliber on these large animals.
Plan for Loading
A bull eland can weigh close to a ton. Recovery and loading require equipment and manpower. Your outfitter will handle this, but be prepared for it to take time. Field dressing location may be dictated by terrain.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- × Underestimating their wariness: Eland are extremely alert; approach carefully
- × Insufficient caliber: Using light bullets or standard construction
- × Rushing the stalk: Patience is crucial; one mistake and they're gone
- × Poor shot placement: Aim for the vitals, not the shoulder blade
- × Not allocating enough time: Plan at least 3 days for eland specifically
- × Shooting at cows: Identify the bull clearly before shooting
- × Long-range attempts: Close to 200 yards or less when possible
After the Shot
Recovery Protocol
- • Mark the spot: Note exactly where the animal was standing
- • Wait: Give the animal 20-30 minutes before following
- • Blood trail: Look for blood color (bright red = lung, dark = liver/gut)
- • Take your rifle: Always be prepared for a follow-up shot
- • Approach carefully: Watch for any movement before approaching
- • Insurance shot: If any doubt, place a finishing shot in the vitals
The Eland Experience
"The eland is one of Africa's most underrated trophies. Hunters who have never hunted them assume their size makes them easy. Nothing could be further from the truth. A mature blue bull, taken fair chase after a proper stalk, is one of the most satisfying African hunting experiences."
- African Safari Experience
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