What is the largest antelope?

Giant elandThis absolute unit of an antelope is a giant eland (Taurotragus derbianus). Elands are the largest species of antelopes.

The eland is the largest antelope. There are two species of eland: the giant, or Derby, eland (Taurotragus derbianus) and the common, or Cape, eland (T. oryx). Their size ranges generally overlap. Bulls of these species can weigh over a ton, or up to 1,000 kg (2,200 pounds). They can grow to heights at the shoulder of 180 cm (6 feet) and to body lengths of 340 cm (11 feet). To compare, elands are about the same size as bison.

By comparison, the smallest antelope is the royal antelope (Neotragus pygmaeus), which stands about 25 cm (10 inches) high and weighs 2.5–3 kg (5.5–7 pounds). It is about the size of a hare. Other notable tiny antelopes include dik-diks and duikers.

Did You Know?

The word eland comes from the Dutch, through Afrikaans, word for elk, which is what northern Europeans call moose. Elk and moose are in the deer family (Cervidae), whereas elands are in the bovid family (Bovidae).

The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThis article was most recently revised and updated by Charles Preston.
Citation Information
Article Title: What is the largest antelope?
Website Name: Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published: 05 November 2026
Access Date: November 14, 2026