Greater kudus are one of the tallest of the African antelopes, and have the longest horns. Only the males have horns, which can reach up to 180cm in length. 

Their body colour varies from reddish-brown to blue grey, with distinctive white stripes (between 6 and 10) along their back.  Males also have a beard under their neck. 

Kudus prefer to browse in thickets, which offer protection against predators such as lion, and when alarmed, they make a gruff 'barking' sound.  

When walking through dense thicket, the male will tilt his head back to lay his horns along his back, so as to move more easily. 

Males and females live separately except during the breeding season.  The females live together in small groups, normally 1 - 3 females and their offspring.

Calves are born during the rainy season.  Male offspring will leave their mother at around 1½ years of age, and go off to form small bachelor herds.  Female offspring stay with the maternal herd for up to 2 years. 

Despite their size, kudu are exceptionally good jumpers, and can easily clear a 2m bush or fence.