The nyala (Tragelaphus angasii) is a medium-sized spiral-horned antelope native to southern Africa. Known for its sexual dimorphism and striking appearance, the nyala inhabits dense woodlands and savannas. The nyala’s beauty, grace, and adaptability make it one of southern Africa’s most cherished and recognizable antelope species. Its preference for dense habitats and close proximity to water sources ensures its presence in some of the region’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
Facts about Nyala
| Physical Description | Nyala exhibit strong sexual dimorphism: Males: Larger and darker, standing about 43 inches at the shoulder and weighing 216–276 lbs. They have a dark brown or slate-gray coat with 8–14 vertical white stripes, a white chevron on the face, and long, shaggy hair along their neck and back. Only males have spiraled horns that reach 24–33 inches. Females: Smaller, standing around 35 inches at the shoulder and weighing 121–150 lbs. Their coats are reddish-brown with more prominent white stripes and spots, but they lack horns. |
| Diet | Nyala are browsers, feeding on leaves, shoots, flowers, and fruits. They also graze on grasses, particularly during the wet season. |
| Gestation Period | The gestation period lasts approximately 7 months (220 days). |
| Maturity | Females reach sexual maturity at about 12–14 months. Males mature sexually at 18–24 months but typically do not breed until they are older and able to compete with dominant males. |
| Reproduction | Nyala breed year-round, but calving peaks often align with the rainy season to ensure abundant food for nursing mothers. Females give birth to a single calf, which hides in thick vegetation for the first few weeks to avoid predators. |
| Breeding Behavior | Males engage in ritualized displays to establish dominance, including raising their dorsal hair and performing a slow, exaggerated walk. Physical fights are rare and usually involve horn wrestling. |
| Preferred Environments | Nyala thrive in dense woodlands, savannas, and riverine thickets. They prefer habitats with a mix of thick cover for hiding and open areas for grazing. |
| Geographic Range | Nyala are native to southern Africa, found in countries such as: South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Swaziland, Malawi, and Zambia. They are often associated with areas near water sources, particularly in low-lying regions. |
| Social Structure | Females and their offspring form small herds of 2–10 individuals. Males are more solitary but may form loose bachelor groups. Adult males join female herds only during the mating season. |
| Activity Patterns | Nyala are most active during early morning and late afternoon (crepuscular), resting in shaded areas during the heat of the day. |
| Predator Avoidance | Their striped coats provide excellent camouflage in their woodland habitats. They rely on their ability to remain motionless or dart into dense cover to evade predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas. |