Greater kudu Greater kudu The greater kudu ("Tragelaphus strepsiceros") is a woodland antelope found throughout eastern and southern Africa. Despite occupying such widespread territory, they are sparsely populated in most areas due to declining habitat, deforestation and poaching. The greater kudu is one of two species commonly known as kudu, the other being the lesser kudu, "T. imberbis". Kudu, or koodoo, is the Khoikhoi name for this antelope. "Tragos" (Greek) denotes a he-goat and "elaphos" (Greek) a deer. "Strepho" (Greek) means "twist", and "strephis" is "twisting". "Keras" (Greek) refers to the horn of the animal. Greater kudus have a narrow body with
Lesser kudu cover has protected it from the risks of poaching. For instance, the lesser kudu is widespread in the Ogaden region, which is rich in dense bush, despite reckless hunting by local people. However, rinderpest outbreaks, to which the lesser kudu is highly susceptible, have resulted in a steep decline of 60% in the animal's population in Tsavo National Park in Kenya. Overgrazing, human settlement, and loss of habitat are some other threats to the survival of the lesser kudu. The total population of the lesser kudu has been estimated to be nearly 118,000, with a decreasing trend in populations. The