Bovids of South Africa · The Wildlife Lens

Bovids of South Africa

Bovids are a large and diverse family of hoofed mammals that includes antelopes, cattle, goats, sheep, buffalo, and many of Africa’s most iconic grazing species. They are characterised by permanent, unbranched horns (present in both sexes in many species), cloven hooves, and a ruminant digestive system that allows them to efficiently process tough vegetation.

They occupy an enormous range of habitats—from open savannas and deserts to mountains and forests—and show remarkable variation in size, behaviour, and social structure. Despite this diversity, all bovids share a common evolutionary theme: they are highly adapted herbivores built for endurance, efficiency, and survival in environments where predators and seasonal food shortages shape their lives.

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