Roan Antelope in Pendjari National Park
With a weight of up to 300 kg and a shoulder height of 1.4 m, the Roan Antelope (Hippotragus equinus) is the second largest antelope of the world (the winner would be the slightly higher, but definitely heavier Eland). It occurs in grasslands or savannahs, but also in open woodlands, of western, eastern and southern Africa. The antelopes are characterized by a grey-brown to reddish coat and black-and-white face markings. Both genders carry strong, curved horns, which are longer in males (reaching up to 1 m). The animals live in groups of up to 15 individuals, usually led by a dominant male which fends off other males. In the wild, these majestic antelopes can become almost 20 years old.
I have photographed Roan Antelopes in the Pendjari National Park, northern Benin, during a visit in February 2012.
Roan Antelope
Roan Antelope
Roan Antelope crossing the road
Roan Antelope
Roan Antelope
Roan Antelope in Pendjari National Park
Matt Travels 
Beautiful photos Matthias! Here in South Africa the roan antelope is very rare and we’re always excited when we see them in the wild – like we did two weeks ago in the Kruger National Park.
thank you! yes, I’ve never seen them in South Africa. But in the Pendjari National Park in Benin, they are regularly seen…
I’ve only seen a couple of roans in this world, so these photos are a great treat. 🙂
thanks – where did you see them?
In Botswana, and not nearly as close-up as you.
yes, I’ve never seen them in southern Africa… you have to go to the Pendjari National Park – they are really quite common there! 🙂
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