Common eland  (Tragelaphus oryx)

Over-hunting appears to be the greatest threat facing the common eland, resulting in its elimination from many areas (2) (5). However, this antelope is still widely distributed and occurs in numerous protected areas (2), and is therefore not yet considered threatened with extinction (1).

The common eland occurs in many protected areas throughout its range, such as Kafue National Park, Zambia, Etosha National Park, Namibia (5), and in the Cape Floral Protected Areas of South Africa, a World Heritage Site (6). In some countries, such as Malawi, the common eland is confined entirely to national parks and game reserves. The continued protection and enforcement of these areas is therefore essential for the common eland’s future survival (5).