Hartebeests can be divided up into eight subspecies that all belong to the bovid family. The Lelwel hartebeest, also called the Jackson’s hartebeest, can reach about five feet in length and weigh around 165-350 pounds depending on the species with males being the larger sex.

Even though the Lelwel hartebeest is in the antelope family, they can be easily distinguished by their long face, large chest, and sloping back. Both males and females have horns, but the females have thinner horns. The overall shape of the horns differs between subspecies but the Lelwel hartebeest has long horns that look Z-shaped from the side and V-shaped from the front.

The Lelwel hartebeest is found in different parts of Africa. Their preferred habitat are grasslands, wooded areas, and savannas.

The Lelwel hartebeest is primarily a grazer that is active during the day. This hartebeest’s odd skull is perfect for eating as its long, thin muzzle assists them in eating short or thin grass and leaves. This is especially useful during the dry seasons when other grazing critters struggle to find food. Plus, their elevated eyes allow them to survey their surroundings while grazing.

The Lelwel hartebeests can reproduce year-round especially during the wet season when there is more food available. Females may mate with several males, while the males use their horns to fight for dominance to breed. In fact, male horn clashing is loud enough to be heard from hundreds of miles away! Pregnancy lasts for about eight to nine months when a single 20-pound calf is born. Even though the calf only relies on its mother’s milk for a few months, it’ll stay with her for the first few years of its life.

Predators of the Lelwel hartebeest are big cats such as lions and cheetahs, hyenas, and even crocodiles. While the group is feeding, one Lelwel hartebeest will keep a lookout for danger by standing on termite mounds to see farther. Even though the Lelwel hartebeest looks bulky and clumsy, it is one of the fastest antelopes alive. If faced with danger, these hartebeests can reach speeds of over 40 miles per hour!