File:Group of fringe-eared oryx in grass - DPLA - de29d8af2010880fe3023eec9a049c78.jpg

35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Mammalia; Order: Artiodactyla; Family: Bovidae; Genus: Oryx; Genus species: Oryx gazella callotis. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: male: 152-170 cm; Height: male: 115-140 cm; Weight: male: 167-209 kg; Identification: With the fringe-eared oryx, females are smaller than males. They are fawn in color and have black markings on the face. Dark lines run down the sides of the belly, and the nose and undersides are white. The oryx also has a black tail and long, straight horns; Habitat: Arid grasslands, forested savannas, semi desert plains, thick brush, near rocky hillsides; Diet: Herbivore: grasses, acacia pods, melons, herbs, roots, tubers, flower bulbs; Reproduction: The female gives birth to one or two calves after a gestation period of nine months. The young are weaned from their mother's milk at 4.5 months of age. Life expectancy in the wild is 18 years and 22 years in captivity; Social Structure: Herds vary in size but can include hundreds of individuals. A herd is usually led in front by the dominant cow while the dominant bull brings up the rear. Male dominance is based on size and age; Behavior: The fringe-eared oryx is most active during the early morning and evening hours; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: Due to specially adapted kidneys, fringe-eared oryx can go weeks without water. This is the only antelope that is born with horns, appearing as tiny bumps at birth. Fringe-eared oryx are hunted for their tough neck skin.