Gemsbok is smiling!

Gemsbok is smiling!

Closer view of a Gemsbok that lives right here in central Arizona, in the Verde Valley southeast of Mingus Mountain. This is within the parameters of a wildlife park, where they are accustomed to seeing humans. I suggest that you never approach one in the wilds. In other words, PLEASE DON'T TRY THIS AT HOME!!! You're running the risk of being gored by horns and trampled by hooves. (Then again ... maybe you might enjoy it!!!)
lcarreau
on Feb 15, 2008 4:04 pm
Image Type(s): Wildlife,  Informational,  Scenery
Image ID: 381042

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nartreb

nartreb - Apr 5, 2008 9:46 am - Hasn't voted

Bovid, but not Bovine

Gemsbok are in genus Oryx in subfamily Hippotraginae ("horse-goats": grazing antelope).

Part of Family Bovidae which includes all the cows, sheep, antelope, and goats; but separate from subfamily Bovinae which is cows, bison, and close relatives.

lcarreau

lcarreau - Apr 6, 2008 1:03 am - Hasn't voted

Re: Bovid, but not Bovine

It resembles an antelope, but looks like
a goat. It's not an Ibex, but is an Oryx.
I've never heard of a "horse-goat," but
I'll take your word for it. I'll just
remove it from the wonderful album of
Bovinae - it will be lost in cyberspace
for awhile, but at least I don't have to
clean up the mess it makes. Thanks, nartreb!

nartreb

nartreb - Apr 6, 2008 7:12 pm - Hasn't voted

Re: Bovid, but not Bovine

"horse-goats" is the literal translation of "hippotraginae". ("hippo" == horse, "tragos" == goat, in Greek.) It actually refers to the stiff mane on their necks. I don't mind if you leave it in the bovinae album, just thought I'd add an explanatory note.

lcarreau

lcarreau - Apr 6, 2008 7:41 pm - Hasn't voted

Re: Bovid, but not Bovine

Thank you. Welcome back, you smiling Gemsbok!
I guess your smile is worth a thousand words.

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