Habitat: Arid plains of North Africa
Status: Extinct in the Wild
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safaris
This oryx is actually extinct in the wild. They had once inhabited the deserts and semi-deserts of northern Africa. However, now is found only in game reserves in Morocco, Tunisia, and Senegal. It was hunted to near complete extinction for its beautiful horns, which are identical to each other. In profile, it can appear that the animal has one single horn. It is widely accepted that this animal is the source of the unicorn legend. This oryx was widely domesticated in Ancient Egypt and Rome.
They are perfectly adapted to living in the high temperatures and low moisture level of their habitat. They efficiently cool themselves in the heat in requiring less water. They can reach internal temperature's over 110 degrees before perspiring. They can tolerate temperature that would be lethal to most other antelope. They also feed almost exclusively in the early morning hours or at night to avoid activity at the height of the sun. Their coat, which is nearly all white with just some light tan markings, effectively reflects the sun's rays.
This species is very sociable. They travel in herds of up to 40 animals which are led by a dominant bull. However, the species did once migrate in herds of over a thousand animals. Herds will feed together and then rest under shrubs and trees together during the day. Although ,ales are bigger, both sexes have horns which are long and thin. They are also easily breakable which also could be the source of the legend of the unicorn.
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