gazeles

Gazelles are small to medium-sized antelopes in the subfamily Antilopinae. They are not a single species but a group of closely related species, historically placed in the genus Gazella and now often classified in Gazella, Eudorcas, or Nanger depending on the taxonomic authority. They are known for slender bodies, long legs, and fast, agile locomotion.

Gazelles occur across Africa north of the equator and in parts of the Middle East and Asia, inhabiting savannas, grasslands, woodlands, and arid regions. They prefer areas with seasonal forage and water and have adaptations to drought and variable rainfall.

Physically, size varies by species; shoulder height generally ranges from about 60 to 100 cm, with weights from roughly 15 to 60 kg. Coat colors span pale tan to gray-brown with lighter undersides; many have facial markings and a contrasting rump patch. Horns are common in both sexes, though their size and shape differ by species.

Behavior and ecology: Gazelles are herbivores that graze and browse. They commonly form herds, with females and juveniles in mixed or separate groups, while males may defend territories during the breeding season. They rely on speed, agility, and bursts of running to evade predators such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs. Gazelles can endure periods without free-standing water, obtaining much of their moisture from food.

Reproduction: Males court during the breeding season; females have a gestation of about five to seven months and typically give birth to a single calf, with twins being rare. Calves are often hidden before joining the herd.

Conservation: Status varies by species; many gazelle populations face habitat loss, hunting, and drought. Some species are listed as vulnerable or endangered, while others persist in protected areas.

Examples include the dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas), Thomson's gazelle (Eudorcas thomsonii), and Grant's gazelle (Nanger granti).