The Addax, the Screwhorn Antelope
Hi, I’m Liza. All across the world wildlife is in danger of extinction as a result of human activity. An endangered species is a species that may become extinct in the near future. I’d like to share with you the information about such species.
The Addax is a spiral-horned antelope. The antelope has long, twisted horns – typically 55 to 80 cm in females and 70 to 85 cm in males. Males stand from 105 to 115 cm at the shoulder, with females at 95 to 110 cm. The colour of the coat depends on the season – in the winter, it is greyish-brown with white hindquarters and legs, and long, brown hair on the head, neck, and shoulders; in the summer, the coat turns almost completely white or sandy blonde.
The Addax (Addax nasomaculatus), also known as the white antelope and the screwhorn antelope, is an antelope native to the Sahara Desert. Until recently, the species, common in the African region, now numbers about 300 individuals. Antelope numbers have declined sharply due to poaching. Their meat and leather are highly prized. Other threats include droughts in the deserts, habitat destruction due to more human settlements and agriculture. They are now found in wild only in the Republic of Niger. Though they are quite common in captivity.
The Addax feed on a variety of desert grasses, shrubs and trees, herbs and bushes. They seek out wild melons because they are a good source of moisture. They are well-adapted to exist in their desert habitat, as they can live without water for long periods of time.
The Addax form herds of five to 20 members, consisting of both males and females. They are led by the oldest female. Due to its slow movements, the addax is an easy target for its predators: humans, lions, leopards, cheetahs and African wild dogs.
The Addax is normally not aggressive, though individuals may charge if they are disturbed.
The Addax are being protected.
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