Oryx gazella gazella
ML-02
ML-02
Legend has it that the southern oryx has given rise to the fabled unicorn. From the right angle, the profile of the oryx indeed resembles that of the unicorn.
Etosha National Park, Namibia, July 2002
Fuji Provia 100F, Minolta 800Si, Sigma EX 100-300 f/4, bean bag
The Oryx
ML-95
Well adapted to arid areas, the oryx is at home both in the semi-desert of Etosha NP and in the Namib desert
Etosha NP, Namibia
February 1995
It is a Kalahari desert (which Etosha belongs to) species, also occurring in the driest and oldest desert of the world, the Namib desert.
Exterminated from most of its former South African range, the nomadic oryx lives under an annual rainfall of 50-250mm. It can survive for long periods without water, but will trek extensively to find it, digging deep in dry riverbeds. The oryx is a grazer that will turn to browse or herbs in the absence of grass. Home ranges can extend to 400 km2.
Despite great contraction of its range, the southern oryx is well represented in major national parks, also appearing outside their boundaries, especially in Namibia. Not endangered.
Oryx and Sossusvlei dunes
Oryx on the run
Solitary Oryx