Unexplained convergence of ear flags in klipspringers and buffaloes

by | Jan 20, 2017 | Site Content

 
                                

Unexplained convergence of ear flags in klipspringers and buffaloes

 

KLIPPIES EARS

Oreotragus sp. photo © MONGO

buffy

Syncerus nanus photo © Jamie Lantzy

 

Given that klipspringers and buffaloes could hardly differ more in body size, habitat, and social behaviour, it is surprising that certain of these species have strikingly similar markings on the front of their ears. Indeed, such ear markings are arguably the most noticeable aspect of the entire colouration of these animals. Even more surprising is that – in both klipspringers and buffaloes – there are closely related species that lack any form of such display on the ears.  
 
Robin and the Honey Badger, 8 January 2017
 

Photographs:

KLIPSPRINGERS:

Oreotragus schillingsi
Oreotragus transvaalensis 
Oreotragus schillingsi
Oreotragus transvaalensis

compared with:



Oreotragus oreotragus
 

BUFFALOES:
Syncerus nanus
Syncerus nanus
Syncerus nanus
Syncerus nanus
compared with:
Syncerus caffer