gazelle

Gazelle is a common name for several small to medium-sized antelopes belonging to the subfamily Antilopinae. They are native to Africa, the Middle East, and Asia and are distributed across savannas, grasslands, deserts, and light woodlands. Gazelles are not a single species but a group comprising several genera, including Gazella, Eudorcas, and Nanger.

Physical characteristics vary by species but generally share slender bodies, long legs, and light, short coats that often tan with a lighter underbelly and a white rump patch. Horns occur in both sexes in most gazelle species, though size and shape differ. They are highly adapted for speed, capable of bursts up to around 60-80 km/h, aided by efficient endurance running.

Gazelles usually form herds that range from small groups to larger assemblages, and males may establish territories during breeding seasons. They are alert and often emit stotting or pronking jumps when threatened, a display thought to deter predators or signal vigour.

Diet and ecology: they are herbivores feeding on grasses, leaves, shoots, and fruits. They can survive on limited water, obtaining moisture from food and drinking when available.

Reproduction involves relatively long gestation periods (roughly five to six months) with usually a single calf per birth; twinning occurs in some species.

Conservation: the IUCN Red List assigns different statuses to different gazelle species; some are of least concern, while others are vulnerable or endangered due to hunting, habitat loss, and human conflict. Protected areas and conservation programs exist in several range countries.