| Range: |
Extinct in the wild; formerly in northwestern Africa |
| Habitat: |
Formerly found in deserts |
| Conservation Status: |
Endangered |
| Scientific Name: |
Gazella dama mhorr |
The brownish-red neck and back of these antelope contrast sharply
with the white rump and underparts. Both male and female Mhorr gazelles
possess curved, ridged horns. When newly born, Mhorr gazelle calves are
sand-colored for camouflage and spend the first weeks of life hiding
under bushes to avoid predation. As the calves age, they gradually
develop the distinct markings of the adults.
Mhorr gazelles once ranged through the harsh, stony deserts of
northwestern Africa where they managed to survive on whatever
vegetation they could find. Now they are thought to be extinct in the
wild due to severe overhunting. The number of Mhorr gazelles in zoos is
increasing, however, thanks to international cooperation among zoos.
Did You Know?
Mhorr gazelles are the largest of the true gazelles.
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