One of the most elegant and striking animals found in the arid regions of Africa. Native to the Sahel and Sahara, this beautiful gazelle is known for its slender build, long legs, and graceful movements. It is a large and slender antelope, with males being slightly larger than females. 

One of the most notable features of the Dama gazelle is its stunning coat, which changes color as the gazelle matures. Young Dama gazelles are usually reddish-brown on the back with white underparts, while adults develop a white body with a reddish-brown neck and head. Both males and females have horns, although the males’ horns are usually thicker and longer, reaching up to 14 inches. The horns are slightly curved and ridged, adding to the gazelle’s majestic appearance.

Dama gazelles are adapted to live in harsh desert and semi-desert environments. They can be found in areas with sparse vegetation, including dry grasslands, savannas, and scrublands. These gazelles are highly adaptable and can survive with minimal water, obtaining most of their hydration from the plants they eat.

As herbivores, Dama gazelles feed primarily on leaves, shoots, grasses, and fruits. They have a unique way of standing on their hind legs to reach high branches and leaves that other herbivores cannot access. This ability allows them to find food in areas where vegetation is sparse.

During the dry season, when food is scarce, Dama gazelles can travel long distances in search of better grazing areas. Their keen sense of smell helps them locate edible plants and water sources in their arid habitat.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Algeria

2015

Possibly Extinct

Burkina Faso

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally since 1980s

Chad

2015

Libya

Official estimate

EX

Last reported in 1970s

Mali

2015

Mauritania

0

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally

Morocco

2015

Possibly Extinct

Niger

2015

Nigeria

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally since 1990s

Senegal

Official estimate

EX

Extirpated in late 1970s

Sudan

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally since 1980s

Tunisia

Official estimate

EX

Last observed in 1950s