What kind of animal is the Sitatunga, a member of the Bovidae family with horns and a heavy weight? We will explain its characteristics, its ecology that lives near water, and its habitat. This baby mammal lives mainly in humid areas such as the tropical rainforests and swamps of Africa, and is recognized by many people because of its cuteness. We will explain detailed information about this animal.
What is Sitatunga? Basic Stats
Sitatunga is classified as an even-toed ungulate in the order Bovidae, family Bovidae, genus Bushbuck. Its scientific name is Tragelaphus spekii and its English name is Sitatunga / Marshbuck. Its body length is 120-170cm, its tail length is 20-25cm, and its weight is 50-120kg. The list of information is as follows.
| Japanese（和名） | シタツンガ |
| English（英名） | Sitatunga / Marshbuck |
| scientific name(学名) | Tragelaphus spekii |
| classification（分類） | Mammalia、Artiodactyla、Bovidae、Tragelaphus 哺乳綱、ウシ目、ウシ科、ブッシュバック属 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | LEAST CONCERN |
| Length（体長） | 120～170cm |
| Weight（体重） | 50～120kg |
About habitat
The Sitatunga is found in central Africa, including Angola, Uganda, Gabon, Cameroon, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Congo, Zambia, Sudan, Senegal, Equatorial Guinea, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Nigeria, Namibia, and Burkina Faso. It is large and can be seen walking in wetlands.
What are its characteristics? What kind of creature is it?
Sitatungas prefer to live in humid areas such as tropical rainforests and swamps in Africa. Their fur is gray-brown or dark brown, while females are lighter brown or chestnut. Males are larger than females and have 6-10 horizontal stripes on their backs. Males have thick, slightly curved horns that are twisted like corkscrews and very hard. They are usually nocturnal and cautious animals. Sitatungas have long, wide hooves. They repel water well and can live near water.
What is their personality like?
Sitatungas usually live alone or in family groups, and live as far away from predators as possible. During the day, they often rest near water or in swamps to avoid predators.
What is their ecology like?
Sitatungas live by eating grass (reeds, sedges, etc.). They are polygamous and have no set breeding season. Females have a pregnancy period of about eight months. Females can give birth to one baby at a time. Some are known to live for over 20 years.
Do they have any natural enemies?
Natural enemies of the sitatunga include leopards and lions. When attacked by an enemy, they often escape to water, and they can also swim.
Is the sitatunga an endangered species?
The sitatunga is not an endangered species. However, it is hunted for its fur and meat, and poaching has increased significantly, making it difficult for African countries to deal with.
Can you keep a sitatunga as a pet?
The sitatunga is an excellent swimmer, but it needs a large amount of space to swim underwater and walk across wide grasslands, making it unsuitable for the average person to keep. It is recommended to view it at a zoo or somewhere similar.
コメント