The population ecology of the roan antelope, Hippotragus equinus equinus (Desmarest, 1804) in the Kruger National Park

Abstract

The past and present distribution of the roan antelope, Hippotragus eguinus eguinus (Desmarest, 1804), is given. Although endangered in several areas the roan is still widely distributed over Sub-Saharan Africa. Age determination may be accomplished by several criteria and ensure a high degree of accur1 among sub-adult animals. Population attributesr including reproduction, mortality factors and population trends, are presented. Feeding behaviour and the specific preference of roan for particular food plants is discussed. Habitat preferences were determined with emphasis on the structural features of roan habitats. Taking into consideration the socio-ecological needs of roan, suggestions are mode for the rnanarJt~ment of this antelope in the Kruger National Park.