Eland (Oreas canna), an antelope of Central and South Africa, the largest of the group, which has sometimes bred in Britain. It is a plump, strong, ox-like animal, stands about six feet high at the shoulders, and has a predominantly light-brown colour, varying to reddish above and yellowish below. The horns, present in both sexes, are about a foot and a half long, straight or slightly bent, and bear a spiral keel. There is a marked dewlap on the throat of the bull, and a dark short mane from the forehead backwards. The tail is ox-like, and ends in a tuft of black hair. The eland lives in small herds, especially on the treeless flats; it can attain considerable speed, and must be hunted on horseback. It is locally known as the
Impoof or Impoofoo. The flesh is said to surpass beef, and the hide is also much valued. On account of its value it is fast becoming scarce. See ANTELOPE.