About:
Did you know that waterbuck escape from predators by running into water? Learn more about the waterbuck.
Care & Wellness:
The waterbuck’s 40-acre habitat is home to several other species and dozens of animals. The habitat allows animals to run, rest in the shade or bask in the sun, and graze on grasses or browse on other vegetation. They can also choose to interact with or stay away from other groups.
Behavior:
- Herds of up to 30 animals are led by a large male and move together with zebra and wildebeest.
- Never far from water, waterbuck run into water to escape predators.
- Males will defend their territory and females, but do not mark their territory.
Endangered Status
- Extinct in Wild (EW)
- Critically Endangered (CR)
- Endangered (EN)
- Vulnerable (VU)
- Near Threatened (NT)
- Least Concern (LC)
- Not Evaluated (NE)
Fun Facts:
- Females are a bit smaller than males.
- Young males are kicked out of the "nursery herd" at nine months old.
- They tend to feed early in the morning and later in the afternoon.
- A distinct white ring can be seen on their rump.
- Hair is waterproofed by skin gland secretions, which smell a bit like turpentine.
