About:
Did you know that rings on male's horns may provide "grip" so the horns do not slip and cause serious injuries when sparring? Learn more about Thomson's Gazelles.
Care & Wellness:
The Thomson’s gazelles at the North Carolina Zoo live in a large herd on the 40-acre Watani Grasslands Reserve habitat. This habitat provides ample space for these small antelope to run, hide, and frolic as well as plenty of grass to graze on.
Behavior:
- Herds of several hundred to many thousands may be seen, especially in the rainy season.
- There is no ranking within the herd, although males use posture, scent gland secretions, dung and urine to mark a territory.
- When fleeing, may "pronk" -- a high, stiff-legged leap that possibly warns others of danger.
Endangered Status
- Extinct in Wild (EW)
- Critically Endangered (CR)
- Endangered (EN)
- Vulnerable (VU)
- Near Threatened (NT)
- Least Concern (LC)
- Not Evaluated (NE)
Fun Facts:
- Births can happen at any time, but usually happen during the rainy season.
- Extremely fast and agile, they can reach speeds of 45 mph and turn sharply to escape predators.
- Rings on male's horns may provide "grip" so the horns do not slip and cause serious injuries when sparring.
