Spatial associations and social interactions in a "solitary" ungulate: the bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus (Pallas)

The bushbuck population in a study area of 0.7 km2 in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda, was observed between June 22 and July 30, 1971. The animals (4 male male, 10 female female, 4 immat.) were individually recognizable. Observations consisted of census sightings and longitudinal observations; during the latter location, neighbours, social encounters and other behaviour of focal animals were recorded continuously. 71% of the census sightings were of single animals. Hardly any aggression was observed, nor did the bushbuck actively avoid oneanother. The definition of the term "solitary" and possible advantages of a dispersed social system for the bushbuck are discussed.