Namibian Safari Hunts

The oryx is a large antelope of striking appearance with long, speared horns. It has a thick, neck with a short mane and a compact, muscular body. A defined pattern of black markings that contrast with the white face and fawn-colored body are prominently displayed in dominance rituals to emphasize the length of horns and strength of the shoulder.

The head is marked with black triangular patches and broad black stripes that extend from the base of the horns over the eyes to the cheeks. A ring of black encircles the throat and runs down the neck to the chest. The ears have a black tip. A thin black stripe runs along the spine, and another one separates the lower flank from the white under parts of the body. The white forelegs have a black ring above the knee and a black patch below.

The ringed horns of the oryx can be up to 30 inches long, and are formidable weapons. The female's horns are often longer and thinner than that of the male.

Oryx are well adapted to hot, arid environments and can live as long as 20 years.

The social system of the oryx is unusual in that non-territorial males live in mixed groups with females. Dominate males are somewhat territorial, and mark their areas with dung deposits. 

Their diets consist of coarse grasses and browse from thorny shrubs. They may drink if water is available but can survive days or even weeks without it.

Like other antelope species, oryx primarily depend on flight to escape from predators such as lions, wild dogs and hyenas