Fauna
Mammal

Mountain Reedbuck

Redunca fulvorufula

Also known as Chanler's Mountain Reedbuck, Southern Mountain Reedbuck

Mountain reedbucks inhabit steep, rocky hillsides and grassy mountain slopes across sub-Saharan Africa. When startled, they emit a sharp whistle before bounding uphill, flashing the fluffy white underside of their tail as an alarm to companions. Males defend small hill-slope territories using forward-curved horns, while females and offspring roam in small, fluid herds.

HerbivoreMountainousHorned
Mountain Reedbuck reference
(c) Brian du Preez, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Brian du Preez · cc-by-sa
—observations
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EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyGrasses, Herbs, Shrub foliage
Predators
  • Leopard
  • Cheetah
  • Spotted Hyena
ThreatsHabitat degradation, illegal hunting, drought, livestock grazing
HabitatsRocky hillsides, mountain grasslands, steep savanna slopes
Life span8–12 years
Classification
  1. FamilyBovidae
  2. SpeciesRedunca fulvorufula
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe from a distance; maintain space to avoid scaring herds.
What to notice
Slender body with a greyish coat, reddish neck, and distinct forward-curved horns on males.
Support conservation
Maintain a respectful distance and avoid flushing herds off steep terrain.
Responsible observation
  • Binocular scanning: Look along steep, grassy slopes early in the morning when individuals feed in open light.
  • Listen for alarms: A high-pitched whistle indicates a herd has detected movement and is preparing to flee.
  • Observe from below: Approach from lower ground when possible, as herds usually retreat upward when spooked.
Related species
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