Cows, in a twist of this behavior, sometimes soak their heads in the urine of another cow, although never from a cow in heat. The eland breeding season is quite variable. In regions of wet and dry fluctuations, populations have distinct seasons. With some, the peak breeding season floats, why is unknown. The impressive size of the master bulls seems only to be for impressing other males and has nothing to do with protecting the females and their calves.
Breeding takes place after a very simple low-key courtship display.
One calf is born after a gestation of about 9 months. Eland mothers moo and the hidden calf replies with a whimper. A calf may stay with the mother, and even nurse, after the next calf is born. Elands are not territorial and calves are seldom driven away. Juvenile bulls simply stay out of the way.