The mountain bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus isaaci), also known as the Eastern bongo, is one of the most striking and elusive antelopes in the world. This subspecies of the bongo is the largest and heaviest forest-dwelling antelope, known for its vibrant reddish-brown coat adorned with thin white vertical stripes. Despite its majestic appearance, the mountain bongo is critically endangered, with its population dwindling due to various threats1.
Physical Characteristics
Mountain bongos are distinguished by their large size and striking appearance. Males can reach up to 128 cm at the shoulder and weigh as much as 405 kg, while females are slightly smaller, weighing up to 253 kg1. Both sexes have long, spiraled horns that can grow up to 99 cm in length. Their coat, which darkens with age in males, provides excellent camouflage in their forest habitat1.
Habitat and Distribution
The mountain bongo inhabits subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, primarily in Kenya. Historically, they were found in the Cherengani Hills and the Chepalungu Hills, as well as on both the Kenyan and Ugandan sides of Mount Elgon. However, they are now restricted to four isolated populations in the forests of Mount Kenya, the Mau Forest, the Eburu Forest, and the Aberdare Mountains1. The species has been extinct in Uganda since the early 20th century.
Behavior and Diet
Mountain bongos are nocturnal and primarily active during dawn and dusk. They are herbivorous, feeding mainly on leaves, vines, bark, and roots, which they dig up using their horns. They also visit mineral licks for salt and have been known to eat burnt wood to obtain minerals1. Bulls are largely solitary, while females with calves can form small herds of up to ten individuals.
Reproduction
Females give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of around nine months. The calves are concealed in dense vegetation to protect them from predators, and the mothers return regularly to suckle them. Calves are weaned at around six months old1.
Threats and Conservation
The mountain bongo faces numerous threats, including habitat loss due to illegal logging and heavy grazing, hunting for its meat and horns, and diseases transmitted by cattle. The population has suffered dramatic declines, with the remaining population estimated at just 100 individuals1. Conservation efforts are crucial to prevent the extinction of this majestic species.
Conservationists are working tirelessly to protect the mountain bongo. Efforts include habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and breeding programs. Organizations like the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy and the Kenya Wildlife Service are actively involved in these initiatives. Additionally, zoos around the world, such as Chester Zoo, are part of global endangered species breeding programs aimed at securing a healthy population of mountain bongos in captivity2.
The mountain bongo is a symbol of the rich biodiversity found in Kenya’s montane forests. Despite facing severe threats, ongoing conservation efforts provide hope for the survival of this magnificent species. Protecting the mountain bongo is not only crucial for maintaining ecological balance but also for preserving a unique and irreplaceable part of our natural heritage