Observations on the behavior of captive sitatunga ( Tragelaphus spekei )

Little is known about the behavior of the sitatunga. In order to learn more about their behavior, a group of sitatunga was studied at the Audubon Park and Zoological Garden. Courtship in the sitatunga begins with a male pursuing the female. The female occasionally stops, allowing the male to approach in the “low stretch” posture. If the female does not move away the male rests his chin on the female's rump and then mounts her. Males commonly horn branches, sticks, and turf. The possible functions of horning are discussed. Males also engage in sparring or “play‐fighting.” Mutual grooming, vocalizations, and mother‐young interactions of the sitatunga are described. The behavior of sitatunga is compared to that of other Tragelaphines.