One of my favorite animals is the Gazelle. It’s name is fun to say and they are freaking fast! The only bad thing about the animal is how many animals prey on it in the vast plains of Africa including; cheetahs, lions, leopards, hunting dogs, hyenas and humans. If the animal manages to avoid all attacks it can live from 10 to 15 years, so just about the length of a household cat or dog. Sadly however, these animals are slowly dwindling away. This is mainly due to human population increases in the main habitats. Oh well… Instead of mourning, how’s about we enjoy a few fun facts about the species!
[photo: Shankar via Flickr]
1. They can reach weights of up to 165lbs. and reach about 43 inches tall to their shoulder.
2. They can reach speeds of up to 40mph!
3. There are a total of 19 unique species of gazelle.
4. During rainy seasons they can be seen grouping in thousands! Holy sh*t.
[photo: Stig Nygaard via Flickr]
5. The name ‘gazelle’ comes from the Arabic word “gazal” which is a term often used within love poems.
I hope that you enjoy this animal as much as I do!!
[via: National Geographic, LiveScience, American Wildlife Foundation]
Strange Adaptions 