The Gemsbok (Oryx gazella) is easily identified by its distinct body color, which is light taupe to tan plus the black markings that run from the face down the neck to the legs. The black markings and white ‘socks’ are also visible on the anterior part of all the legs. Their long tail is also black. This antelope is large, with a thick muscular neck and long straight horns. It is also called gemsbuck or the South African oryx found in grasslands and arid areas of the Kalahari desert. The gemsbok’s horn is highly prized, as we can use it as a natural trumpet. It is both a grazer and a browser and nomadic. Females live in social groups, but males can be solitary.
Gemsboks have a standing shoulder height between 45.3”-49.2” (115-125 cm), overall body length from 70.9”-94.5” (180-240 cm), standing height of roughly 48.4”-64.6” (123-164 cm), and a body width of 15.4”-19.3” (39-49 cm). The weight of a Gemsbok is between 220-661 lb (100-300 kg). Gemsboks have a typical lifespan of 18-24 years.
The Gemsbok (Oryx gazella) is easily identified by its distinct body color, which is light taupe to tan plus the black markings that run from the face down the neck to the legs. The black markings and white ‘socks’ are also visible on the anterior part of all the legs. Their long tail is also black. This antelope is large, with a thick muscular neck and long straight horns. It is also called gemsbuck or the South African oryx found in grasslands and arid areas of the Kalahari desert. The gemsbok’s horn is highly prized, as we can use it as a natural trumpet. It is both a grazer and a browser and nomadic. Females live in social groups, but males can be solitary.
Gemsboks have a standing shoulder height between 45.3”-49.2” (115-125 cm), overall body length from 70.9”-94.5” (180-240 cm), standing height of roughly 48.4”-64.6” (123-164 cm), and a body width of 15.4”-19.3” (39-49 cm). The weight of a Gemsbok is between 220-661 lb (100-300 kg). Gemsboks have a typical lifespan of 18-24 years.
