Overview
A large, very handsome antelope with a sloping back and striking black-and-white markings. It is heavily built through the chest and shoulders, giving it the appearance of having no neck. Ears are large and rounded. Tail is long and tufted. Overall coloration is a pale grayish-fawn. There is a black dorsal stripe, wide black bands on the flanks, and black markings on the throat, upper legs and rump. Black facial stripes connect with a black band encircling the muzzle. The tail is long and black. The horns (both sexes) are very long and straight and diverge rather widely at the tips, although this varies with the individual. The female is somewhat smaller and has horns that tend to be slimmer, longer and more parallel than the male's, and are sometimes slightly curved.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Artiodactyla
- Family
- Bovidae
- Genus
- Oryx
- Species
- gazella
Habitat
Arid and semi-arid grasslands. Distribution- Kalahari, Karoo, and adjoining regions of Southern Africa.
Diet
Primarily grazes but will browse based on seasonal availability of plants.
Behavior
This animal resides in herds of up to 35 individuals, and is highly nomadic throughout the arid landscape it inhabits. Can go without drinking water, in which case it will dig up roots and tubers to satisfy its need for moisture.
Hunting
In assessing the animal, remember that the cow’s horns tend to be longer and will often out-score the bull. Hunting gemsbok requires a good pair of boots, as you are apt to cover a lot of country. This open country will demand a flat shooting rifle and scope combination. They are always alert with excellent eyesight, hearing, and smell, your approach will have to be carefully planned. This is one of the tough antelopes - the .270 caliber should be considered the minimum, with a good quality 150 grain bullet. The 7mm and 30 caliber Magnums are an even better choice.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN.