Oryx

For the helicopter, see Atlas Oryx.

An Oryx is one of three or four large antelope species of the genus Oryx, typically having long straight nearly upright horns. Three of the species are found in Africa with a fourth in Arabia.

The East African Oryx (Oryx beisa) can survive without water for long periods. Some taxonimists make it a sub-species of the Gemsbok (Oryx gazella). The smallest species, the Arabian Oryx, is almost extinct, and another, the Scimitar Oryx of the Sahara is extinct in the wild. 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.

• FAMILY BOVIDAE
  • Subfamily Hippotraginae
    • Genus Hippotragus
    • Genus Oryx
      • East African Oryx, Oryx beisa
      • Scimitar Oryx, Oryx dammah
      • Gemsbok, Oryx gazella
      • Arabian Oryx, Oryx leucoryx
    • Genus Addax

External links

• Arabian Oryx- Photo from the Hai-Bar Wildlife Preserve in Israel.