Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Artiodactyla
- Family
- Bovidae
- Genus
- Dorcatragus
Habitat
Beiras primarily inhabit arid and semi-arid regions in the Horn of Africa, such as rocky hills, mountains, and scrublands in Somalia, Ethiopia, and Djibouti. They prefer areas with sparse vegetation and rugged terrain that provide cover from predators.
Diet
Beiras mainly browse on leaves, shoots, and fruits from shrubs and small trees, occasionally consuming grasses and herbs. They feed primarily in the early morning and late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, using their keen senses to select nutritious plants in their dry environment.
Behavior
Beiras are diurnal and live in small family groups or pairs, often led by a dominant male. They exhibit territorial behavior, with males marking boundaries using scent glands and engaging in displays to ward off rivals. These antelopes are agile climbers on steep, rocky slopes and rely on quick escapes to evade threats.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Beira as Vulnerable due to habitat degradation from overgrazing and hunting. Population trends are decreasing, with major threats including human encroachment and drought.