Waterbucks are diurnal and territorial antelopes. Females live in herds of 6 to 12 individuals, with young and calves, whereas males are mostly solitary, or sometimes in small groups. This species has the distinction of diving into the water when it feels in danger. The glands they have on their skin produce a kind of oil, with a strong smell, which is supposed to have water-proof quality and to facilitate their movements in water.