Gemsbok

Oryx gazella

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Artiodactyla · Bovidae

About

The gemsbok, or South African oryx, is a large antelope in the genus Oryx. It is endemic to the dry and barren regions of Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe, mainly inhabiting the Kalahari and Namib Deserts, areas in which it is supremely adapted for survival. Previously, some sources classified the related East African oryx, or beisa oryx, as a subspecies.

Fun Fact

Gemsbok can survive without drinking water for weeks by raising their body temperature to 45°C during the day — blood heading to the brain is first cooled in a sinus network at the base of the skull.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Deserts and arid grasslands

Diet

Herbivore

Lifespan

18-20 years

Threats

Agricultural Conversion
Urban Expansion

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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