Gerenuk
Litocranius walleri
Conservation Status
VulnerableMammalia · Artiodactyla · Bovidae
About
The gerenuk, also known as the giraffe gazelle, is a long-necked, medium-sized antelope found in parts of East Africa. The sole member of the genus Litocranius, the gerenuk was first described by the naturalist Victor Brooke in 1879. It is characterised by its long, slender neck and limbs. The antelope is 80–105 centimetres tall, and weighs between 18 and 52 kilograms. Two types of colouration are clearly visible on the smooth coat: the reddish brown back or the "saddle", and the lighter flanks, fawn to buff. The horns, present only on males, are lyre-shaped. Curving backward then slightly forward, these measure 25–44 cm.
Fun Fact
Gerenuks stand upright on their hind legs to browse on high branches that no other antelope can reach, and they never need to drink water — they get all moisture from the leaves they eat.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Dry thornbush and scrublands
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
8-13 years
Threats
- Invasive Species
- Illegal Wildlife Trade
- Agricultural Conversion