Average Mass:
126 kg (275 lb)

Average Shoulder Height:
125 cm (49")

Rowland Ward:
58.42 cm (23")

SCI:
58 Points

Track: 89mm (3 1/2") x 60mm (2 3/8")

Distribution CAR, Chad, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, western Sudan, Niger, Upper Volta.

Categorical-discrete (CD) distribution model

Principally grazers, also enjoy wild watermelon and have a fondness for honey, grass plains is their habitat.

The hartebeest, like many antelope, is primarily diurnal, grazing in the early morning and late afternoon, and resting in a shaded area during the hottest part of the day.  During feeding periods, a sentry watches for potential sources of danger, and can often be seen standing on a termite mound in order to increase the range of visibility.  When fleeing, the herd runs in single file, and can reach speeds of up to 80 kmph / 48 mph.  At 3-4 years of age, males attempt to hold a territory.  Marked with dung piles, these defended regions average 31 hectares in area, and are generally taken over by another male after 4-5 years.  Females and males alike are generally non-aggressive, although both sexes will fight vigorously in defense of their offspring or territory.  Population densities average 1.4 animals per square kilometer.