Antelopes are hoofed mammals that are classified in the Mammalian order Artiodactyla, and most species of antelopes are classified in the family Bovidae; “true antelopes”, include only the genera Gazella, Nanger, Eudorcas, and Antilope. Some antelopes are closer related to cattle, goats, and sheep than to other antelopes. The Pronghorn(Antilocapra americana) is classified in the family Antilocapridae; this makes it the only antelope not classified in the family Bovidae. Male antelopes are often called bulls or rams, and female antelopes are sometimes called cows or ewes.
Physical Characteristics
Antelopes may grow horns that protrude from their skulls. In some species only the males can grow horns. The Giant Eland of Africa is the largest antelope in the world; males can reach weights of 1,200 kilograms(2,650 lbs.). The world’s smallest antelope is the Royal Antelope(Neotragus pygmaeus) of west Africa. Royal Antelopes weigh up to 3 kilograms(6.6 pounds). Most antelopes are some shade of brown, but may have white or pale underbodies. In some species of antelopes the male and female differ in color. One such species is the Blackbuck(Antilope cervicapra); the male’s upper parts and outsides of the legs are dark brown to black, the underparts and the insides of the legs are white; females and juveniles are yellowish brown to light brown
Range And Habitat
Antelopes are found in Africa, Asia, North America, and eastern Europe. Antelopes inhabit savannahs, woodlands, grasslands, deserts, floodplains, marshy areas, mountainous regions, rainforests, and swamps.
The Pronghorn(Antilocapra americana) is the only antelope found in North America. Pronghorns live in the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan, and the States of Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. The American Pronghorn can also be found in northern Mexico. Pronghorns inhabit grasslands, and deserts.
Breeding
Antelope gestation periods range from 4 to 9 months, 1 to 2 calves are born at a time.
Diet
Antelopes eat; grass, plants, leaves, shrubs, fruit, twigs, herbs, and flowers.
