Scimitar Antelope

(Oryx algazel), an artiodactyl of the genus Oryx. The body reaches 2 m in length and approximately 1 m in height. Males and females have saber-like bent horns that reach 1 m in length and are round in cross section, with ringed thickenings at the base. The coloration is light yellow, with dark spots only on the head. Scimitar antelopes are found in North Africa. They are polygamous and live in small herds of as many as 40 individuals. They feed on grasses. During the rutting season (in September) the males fight for the females. The gestation period is from eight to 8½ months. Scimitar antelopes are hunted for their meat, hide, and horns.