Their herds are small, usually 1-3 females with their offspring. The single calf hides for at least two weeks after birth. It will remain with its mother's herd for 1-2 years. Mothers summon their calves with a smacking sound. Greater kudu also emit a gruff bark, one of the loudest noises antelopes make.
Males also grunt.
The color and vertical striping help them hide in grasslands and thickets. The greater kudu can jump obstacles as high as 8 feet when trying to escape danger.