Location: Africa
Habitat: Forests
Diet: Herbivores
Characteristic: Large ears with excellent hearing
Conservation: Near Threatened
Bongos are found in central and western Africa, particularly in countries like Kenya, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They inhabit dense forests, including rainforests and mountain forests. Bongos are well adapted to living in areas with thick vegetation. Bongos are large and sturdy antelopes. They have a striking appearance with reddish-brown fur and vertical white stripes on their bodies, which provide excellent camouflage in the dappled light of the forest. They have large ears that help them detect sounds in their forest environment, making it easier to detect predators and other animals.
Bongos are herbivores with a diverse diet. They feed on leaves, grasses, fruits, and even tree bark. Their diets can change depending on the food available in their environment.
Female bongos give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of around 9 months. The calf is well hidden in the dense vegetation, and the mother returns to nurse it. Bongos are known for their shy and elusive behavior. They are primarily active during the early morning and late afternoon. They rely on their excellent sense of smell and hearing to navigate their forest homes.
Bongos are considered near threatened due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts are in place to protect their forest habitats and ensure their survival in the wild.