Nyala
Tragelaphus angasii
Distribution:
Southern Africa
Habitat:
Woodlands, shrublands, moorlands.
Diet:
Grass, foliage, fruits, flowers and twigs.
Gestation:
220 days, one foal born
Longevity:
16 - 19 years in the wild, 18 - 22 years in captivity.
Predators:
Lions, leopards, baboons, birds of prey and humans.
Conservation Status:
Least Concern
General:
The nyala is a beautiful spiral-horned antelope with unique markings. They are very shy in nature, and like remaining hidden rather than coming out in the open. Most sightings of nyala in the wild are at water holes.
Alert and wary in nature, nyala use a sharp, high, dog-like bark to warn others in a group about the danger. Generally this is done by the females of the group.
Nyala are very cautious creatures, usually living in groups of up to 10 individuals. Females often remain close with their mothers, especially when having their own offspring. Old males usually live alone.
Fun fact: Nyala have hairy glands on the feet, which leave their scent wherever they walk.
At Hamilton Zoo:
You can find our Nyala boys down past the cheetah on the way to the oasis lawn.
Males:
Bernie - 1/10/18
Makalo - 28/04/18
Barry - 21/8/18