Overview
The Southern Reedbuck (Redunca arundinum) is the largest member of the reedbuck genus, roaming the lush wetland valleys and river floodplains of southern and south-central Africa. Recognized by its soft, silky yellowish-brown coat, prominent dark glandular patch beneath each ear, and the forward-hooked horns of adult males, it is an essential herbivore tightly linked to permanent freshwater habitats and dense riverine vegetation.
Biology and Physical Characteristics
Adult Southern Reedbucks stand nearly a meter tall at the shoulder, with adult males bearing stout, heavily ridged horns 30 to 45 cm long that sweep backward before curving gracefully forward at the tips. The coat is grizzled yellowish-buff dorsally, paler along the flanks, and features distinctive pure-white patches on the chin, upper throat, and around the eyes. A specialized inguinal gland near the groin secretes scented oils used in social communication, while their long, powerful legs enable them to navigate boggy marshes.
Behavior and Ecology
Southern Reedbucks are solitary or form monogamous pairs that occupy stable home ranges centered around permanent watercourses. Strictly herbivorous, they emerge from dense reedbeds and tall vlei grasses during twilight and night to graze on tender grass shoots and monocots. When danger threatens, they freeze completely flat in tall grass, relying on cryptic coloration; if pressed too closely, they explode from cover with a loud, piercing whistle, bounding away with an undulating ‘rocking-horse’ gait while flashing their bushy white tail.
Conservation and Human Impact
Assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Southern Reedbuck maintains large and stable populations across southern African game reserves and national parks, including Kruger National Park and the Okavango Delta. However, drainage of wetlands for agriculture, widespread poaching for bushmeat, and uncontrolled cattle grazing along river margins have caused localized population declines outside protected areas.
Interesting Factoid
The Southern Reedbuck can lie completely motionless with its neck stretched flat against the muddy marsh ground, staying so invisible that safari vehicles can drive within three feet of it without noticing its presence.