Common waterbucks possess a brown to gray pelage coated with an oily secretion, which emits a distinctive odor. This secretion not only facilitates intraspecific communication but also provides waterproofing.

 Interesting Facts

Prominent Characteristics:

            The common waterbuck is a large and robust antelope species. Sexual dimorphism is evident, with males being significantly larger than females. Male waterbucks typically weigh between 200–300 kilograms, while females weigh 160–200 kilograms. Their pelage is thick and coarse, varying from brown to gray, with darker pigmentation on the legs. Distinctive white markings are present on the face, including stripes around the nose, mouth, above the eyes, and on the neck. The ears of the common waterbuck are short and rounded, with black coloration along the edges and tips. Only males possess horns, which are characterized by a prominent spiral structure and measure approximately 22–39 inches in length, curving forward. The species' body length ranges from 177–235 centimeters, with a tail length of 33–40 centimeters, further contributing to their robust physique.

Common waterbucks typically form herds, which can comprise up to 30 individuals. These groups often consist of juveniles, females, and territorial males. Younger males frequently form bachelor groups, while older males may exhibit solitary behavior or occasionally associate with mixed-species assemblages. 

 Common waterbucks are proficient swimmers and divers, utilizing these abilities as a means of escaping predators, including lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and African wild dogs. 

Primary Diet: 

The primary diet of the common waterbuck consists predominantly of grasses, high-protein forages, and reeds, with occasional consumption of fruits. In zoological settings, this diet may be supplemented with additional plant materials to ensure a nutritionally balanced intake.

Habitat:

Common waterbucks are primarily found in savannah ecosystems, particularly in regions south of the Sahara Desert. 

Reproduction:

            Male common waterbucks reach sexual maturity at approximately 6 years of age, while females become reproductively active at 2–3 years. The species has a gestation period of 8–9 months, typically resulting in the birth of a single offspring. Offsprings are sheltered in dense vegetation for the first two weeks of life. Weaning generally begins around 8 months of age.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of the common waterbuck is approximately 18 years, both in the wild and in zoological settings.

Conservation Status: 

The common waterbuck is currently listed as Least Concern (LC) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). 

However, the species faces threats from habitat loss due to the expansion of agricultural land and urban development, which reduce available natural habitats. Additionally, hunting and the spread of diseases further impact the population of the common waterbuck.