What specific characteristic of the Waterbuck's coat aids in moisture management after wading or swimming?
The hair appears somewhat dense and tends to have an almost oily sheen, which may contribute to its water-repellent nature.
The coat texture of the Waterbuck is a highly recognizable physical trait, described as being notably coarse and shaggy, which differentiates it from many smoother-coated savanna antelope. A key aspect related to its semiaquatic lifestyle is the presence of an almost oily sheen on the dense hair. This oily quality is strongly suggested to be the mechanism that grants the coat its water-repellent capabilities. This allows the animal to quickly shed moisture after submerging itself in water or wading through marshy areas, preventing the animal from becoming waterlogged. This adaptation contrasts with the sleek coats of desert species and suggests an evolutionary prioritization of water shedding alongside insulation provided by the coarse texture.
