Oryx | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scientific classification | ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
Binomial name | ||||||||||||
Oryx beisa |
The Oryx (or Sabre Antelope) is an endangered African antelope that lives in near desert conditions.
The Oryx (Oryx beisa), of the Antilocapridae family can survive without water for long periods. The smallest species, the Arabian oryx, is almost extinct, and another, the scimitar-horned oryx of the Sahara is also on the endangered list. Oryxes live in herds of up to 60 animals.
Newborn calves can run with the herd immediately after birth. Both males and females have permanent, narrow, straight horns. These horns are quite dangerous, and the oryx has been known to kill lions with them.