WHAT DOES NYALA MEAN?

The mountain Nyala, whose scientific name is Tragelaphus buxtoni, is a kind of antelope that lives in Southern Ethiopia (East Africa).

Detailed information from Animal Info by Paul Massicot:

The mountain nyala is a kudu-like antelope, weighing up to 300 kg (660 lb). It is found in highland forest and heathland, between 3000 - 4200 m (9800 - 13,800'). It is mainly a browser, feeding on herbs and shrubs and occasionally on grass, lichens, leaves and ferns in the evening and early morning. Groups of up to 15 individuals have been observed; it can also occur alone.

The mountain nyala is endemic to Ethiopia. Since at least the 1960's it has been reported only from the mountains of southeastern Ethiopia such as the Arussi and Bale mountains.

Reasons for the mountain nyala's decline include habitat loss, disturbance and poaching. Natives of the area hunt it for meat and purported medicinal purposes. In most parts of its range, its preferred habitat at lower altitudes has been taken over for cultivation and pastoralism and it has been forced to retreat to higher, less vegetated regions.

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