Gerenuk

Africa · antelope · long-necked

Giraffe Gazelle. The gerenuk is also called the giraffe gazelle because of its long, skinny neck that looks nothing like a typical antelope. It was first discovered and described by a naturalist named Victor Brooke way back in 1879.

Perfectly Sized. These antelopes are medium-sized animals, standing 80 to 105 centimetres tall and weighing between 18 and 52 kilograms. That's about the size of a big dog, but much more graceful!

Two-Tone Coat. The gerenuk has a smooth coat with two clear colors: a reddish-brown back (called the "saddle") and lighter tan or buff-colored flanks on its sides. This two-tone pattern helps it blend into the African landscape.

Curvy Horns. Only male gerenuks have horns, and they're shaped like lyres (a musical instrument). These horns curve backward and then slightly forward, measuring between 25 to 44 centimetres long.