Kalahari Gemsbok

The gemsbok or gemsbuck (Oryx gazella) is a large African antelope, of the Oryx genus. Gemsbok live in herds of about 10-40 animals, which consist of a dominant male, a few non-dominant males, and females.They often live in association with zebras, gazelles, or other antelope. The female's horns may be curved, but the male's are thicker and parallel. Male gemsbok have been known to gore attacking lions with their horns. Gemsbok are mainly desert-dwelling and do not depend on drinking to supply their physiological water needs.Gemsbok measure 115 to 125 cm high at the shoulder, and have total body lengths between 180 and 195 cm. Females weigh from 180 to 225 kg, whereas males are slightly larger, weighing between 180 and 240 kg. The slightly curved, ringed horns range from 60 to 150 cm in length. The horns of females are often shorter and more slender than those of males.

Black markings on the face extend down from the base of the horns to above the muzzle, and sweep back in stripes over the eyes and cheeks. Black continues down the neck and around the underbody, forming bands around all four legs. A stripe also runs up the spine, starting at the tip of the tail and ending at a short thick mane of black. There are black markings on the front of all four legs. The lower portion of the legs, muzzle, and underbelly are all white, whereas the body and neck are a gray or tan color. In instances of high productivity grazing, fat deposits under the skin become noticeable.