A graceful antelope native to the dry steppes and deserts of Central Asia, the Middle East, and parts of China. Unlike some of its relatives that thrive in lush savannas or grasslands, this gazelle has adapted to some of the harshest environments on Earth. Its name comes from the curious swelling of the male’s neck, or “goiter,” which becomes especially prominent during the mating season. This swelling is not a sign of illness but rather a secondary sexual characteristic used to impress females and intimidate rival males. In fact, it is one of the most distinctive features that sets the goitered gazelle apart from other gazelle species. With its slender build, long legs, and tan coat that blends seamlessly with sandy landscapes, this animal is perfectly designed for life in wide-open, arid spaces.

One of the most striking adaptations of the goitered gazelle is its ability to survive in places with extreme heat and very little water. These gazelles can go for long stretches without drinking, getting much of their needed moisture from the plants they eat. Their diet is varied and opportunistic, consisting of grasses, shrubs, and even desert herbs depending on what is available.

Another unique aspect of their behavior is how they move. Unlike some gazelles that use a bounding gait called stotting, the goitered gazelle relies on high-speed galloping to escape predators. They are generally more solitary than other gazelles, although they may form small groups of females and young, while adult males prefer to roam alone, especially outside of breeding season.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Afghanistan

2016

Armenia

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally

Azerbaijan

4,000-6,000

2016

China

2016

Georgia

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally, Reintroduced

Iran

2016

Iraq

2016

Presence Uncertain

Kazakhstan

2016

Kyrgyzstan

2016

Mongolia

2016

Pakistan

2016

Tajikistan

2016

Turkmenistan

2016

Uzbekistan

2016