Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Waterbuck

Scientific name: Kobus ellipsiprymnus


Waterbuck

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: BOVIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 30 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.05-30.06

Gestation: 8–9 mois

Births: 01.01-28.02


Habitat:
Savannas, wet grasslands, riverbanks

Description:
The waterbuck, or Kobus ellipsiprymnus, is a large African herbivore known for its grayish-brown coat and distinctive white ring on its rump. It primarily inhabits wet savannas and grasslands near water bodies, as it relies on water for survival. Males have long, curved horns, while females lack them. This gregarious mammal forms mixed herds, although adult males are often solitary or in small groups. The waterbuck is an excellent swimmer, allowing it to escape predators. Its diet mainly consists of grasses and aquatic plants.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the waterbuck, focus on early morning or late afternoon hours when the light is soft and the animal is most active. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture details without disturbing the animal. Be patient and observe the herd's behavior to anticipate their movements. Riverbanks and wet grasslands are ideal locations to spot them. Maintain a safe distance of 30m to avoid scaring them.

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