The Gemsbok (Oryx gazelle) is a large ungulate (hoofed) mammal. It is an antelope. It is also called the Oryx Gazelle, Gemsbuck, or South African Oryx. 

The Gemsbok has light-brownish-grey fur with lighter patches towards it rear. It has a black stripe from its chin to the lower edge of its neck, and to its shoulder and legs. Its tail is long and black. It has a muscular neck and shoulders. Its legs have white ‘socks’ with a black patch on the front of its front legs. Both the male and the female have long, straight horns. The female has longer, thinner horns than the male. 

The Gemsbok is the largest species of Oryx in the world. It measures 120 centimetres (45 inches) at shoulder height, and 190-240 centimetres (75-94 inches) long. Its tail measures 45-90 centimetres (18-35 inches) long. Its horns measure 85 centimetres (33 inches) long. 

It is native to southern Africa, in the Kalahari Desert. It prefers dry regions and deserts. 

It is a grazer, eating grass. It does not drink much water.

It lives in herds of 10-40 individuals, led by a dominant male. The female is pregnant for 270 days, before giving birth to 1-2 young, called calves. Each calf is hidden in long grass for 42 days until it is strong and independent. 

[Location of photographs: Berlin, Germany]

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM