Gemsbok / Oryx
wildlife of Namibia
Introduction - The Oryx found in Southern Africa is often known by its Afrikaans name, Gemsbok. The Gemsbok is found all over Namibia and can tolerate arid areas which are uninhabitable to most other antelope. It obtains enough drinking water from food to survive and therefore does not need to drink. Gemsbok can tolerate extreme heat and to conserve water can allow their body temperature to rise to levels that would kill most animals. Herds number anywhere between 5 and 40 animals but aggregations of several hundred can occur.
Female herds include non-territorial bulls will move between the territories of dominant bulls in search for food. To avoid conflict non-territorial bulls are submissive towards territorial bulls. The behaviour of this species is geared to energy and water conservation. In the heat of the day they will rest in the shade of trees. Where shade is not available they will orientate themselves to present as little as possible of their body surface to the sun.
The sight of gemsbok in the dunes at Sossusvlei with the rising sun as a backdrop is not uncommon and is sure to leave an endearing memory. Gemsbok are so common throughout Namibia that you are likely to see them next to the road throughout the entire country.
Diet - Gemsbok mostly feed on nutritious leaves, grasses and herbs. During the dry season they feed on flowers and will also browse for food.
Colouring - A large antelope with striking black and white markings on the face and legs, black side stripes on the flanks and a long black tail
Breeding - only one calf is born after a gestation period of approximately 9 months.
Size - Bulls measure 1.2m at the shoulders and attain a mass of 240 Kg. Both bulls and cows have horns. Male horns are shorter and stockier than female horns.
