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Photo of the Day #4: Sable Antelope

By laelaps on October 12, 2007.

i-aae050a2a00810f3997505cec1063c37-sableantelope.jpg

The Sable Antelope (Hippotragus niger) is one of the larger varieties of antelope in Africa, sometimes being referred to as one of the "Horse Antelope" belonging to the Subfamily Hippotraginae [of which the Addax (Addax nasomaculatus) and Oryx (Oryx sp.) are also members]. Sable Antelope differ from the Gerenuk (Litocranius walleri) mentioned earlier this week in that both sexes bear large horns, and while there is some sexual dimorphism (males having the larger horns), females also bear a respectable set. Even so, the male Sable Antelope don't let anyone forget that they're in charge, and dominant males often herd females and their young, chasing after or charging those who don't move in the desired direction. Females have their own dominance hierarchy as well, though, and it is established with behaviors ranging from rubbing the horns/head on another female to jabbing at the side or rump of another individual with the long horns.

Tags
mammals
Antelope
artiodactyl
mammal
sable antelope
zoo

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That's weird, Chris, although I noticed the same thing. I'll see what's up and try to get things fixed up, but thanks for looking at my blog the good 'ol fashioned way while things are being set up.