The Antelope of africa

Oryx

Oryx gazella

Large black and white antelope of the arid areas of Africa with both sexes having long rapier-like horns. Commonly called gemsbok in southern Africa.

Distribution South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Angola to separate populations in east Africa and the Horn of Africa

Social structure Live in herds that range in size depending on the season and availability of food. They move locally from area to area in relation to food supply. Herds have dominant males.

Range differentiation Three subspecies are found in Africa: Gemsbok (O.g. gazella) in southern Africa; Beisa (O.g. beisa) and (O.g. callotis) in east Africa and the Horn of Africa. Differences in markings occur across the range.

Habitat Found in arid areas and dry savanna. Water is not essential for their survival.

Feeding Mixed feeders with a preference for grazing, they also feed on fruits and seeds when available.

Breeding Breeding year round but with seasonal peak in the rainy season for birth. Calf is hidden during the day and will join herd after approximately one month.

Both the male and the female Oryx have long horns

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Both sexes carry the long rapier-like horns.

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Lions are the largest predators of oryx.

The oryx has a fine system of blood vessels in its nostril. When the oryx breathes in, the blood is cooled by the air passing over the vessels, allowing the body temperature to rise as high as the outside temperature and hereby preventing sweating.

A mauling

The oryx is the one animal I have personally been injured by. During game capture operations in South Africa a gemsbok was netted from a helicopter and while attempting to bring the animal under control it flashed its sharp horns and punctured my lower leg.