The Common eland, Taurotragus oryx, may stand 6 feet at the shoulders and weigh slightly more than 2,000 pounds. Both sexes have horns, beautiful spirals three feet long. The Common eland's coat is light tan, darkening to gray in older males. There are usually a few light stripes on the forequarters, black and white leg markings, and a black tuft on the end of the tail. With their elongated pupils and highly sensitive retinas, plus their eyes placed on the sides of their heads, antelopes are able to keep a sharp watch over most of the territory around them without so much as turning their heads.
Antelopes have acute senses of hearing and smell.
Along with many other herd animals, antelopes have four-chambered ruminant stomachs which enables them to make the best use of available food. The Common Eland previously inhabited grassland and open woodlands in East, South and Central Africa. They are now found only in game reserves and ranches. In the breeding season elands form herds of up to several hundreds. They are highly mobile and have large home ranges.