Facts about Frogs , Amphibians, Reptiles, Fish & other Animals

Addra Gazelle

Scientific Name:
Gazella dama ruficollis
(a.k.a. Nubian red-necked gazelle)

SWAHILI NAME FOR GAZELLE: Kinokero, Vinokero (plural)

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

The Addra gazelles of both sexes usually have horns which are ringed and are medium to long in length and curved like an "S". Their heads are rather small with narrow muzzles, and their eyes are relatively large. Glands near the eyes are well developed.

Addra Gazelles fit this description well. The males' horns are about 14 inches long; females horns are much shorter. They have longer necks and legs than most gazelles, and a characteristic white spot under their chins. Their necks and most of the back and flanks are reddish or chestnut. Hindquarters and undersides of their bodies are white and the tails are short and white, with black tips. Dama or Addra gazelles are the tallest and largest of gazelle species. Their body lengths range from 36-68 inches, shoulder heights from 34-42 inches (88 - 108 cm), and body weights up to 160 pounds.

Their senses of sight and hearing are well developed.

DIET:

Addra Gazelles migrate in response to seasonal changes in vegetation and climate. They feed on dry bushy plants and grasses and need more water than some of their desert relatives, although they can withstand fairly long periods of drought. Sometimes they graze, but they are basically browsers.

DISTRIBUTION:

They range over the Sahara from Mauritania to Sudan. In rainy season they move north into the Sahara; in dry season they migrate back to Sudan.

BEHAVIOR:

Addra Gazelles are active during the day. In former times they could be seen in herds of as many as 500. The average herd size is now 15-20 animals. The drastic reduction is due largely to poaching.

Stretch Marks