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This species’ range stretches over the Sahara desert from Algeria and Mauritania to Egypt . In Fig. all the occupied areas are marked as "possible presence". Its distribution was drawn from Kingdon (1997) and adjusted following comments made by Dr. R. East ( 23 June ‘97 ). A reliable map exists for Egypt (Saleh, 1987), and it was utilised to check the species’ distribution in this country. Due to the extreme heat of its desert environment, the slender-horned gazelle feeds mostly at night and in the early morning. At these times they are able to exploit the dew which has formed on the leaves and the higher water content in the plants. All needed water is obtained in this fashion - slender-horned gazelles rarely need to drink water. The slender-horned gazelle is a nomadic species, wandering the dunes in search of vegetation. The main cooling mechanisms are the reflective white coat and a specially adapted nasal passage which allows for cooling of the blood. Deceptively mild-mannered in appearance, slender-horned gazelles are known to become aggressive in captivity. Males often battle fiercely when defending the loose territories they establish. Categorical-discrete (CD) distribution model Primarily found in sandy deserts. Also reported to occur in stony deserts (Kingdon, 1997; East, 1990; Spinage, 1986; Osborn & Helmy, 1980). IUCN threat category Endangered (EN: criteria C1+2a). One of the palest gazelle species, the slender-horned gazelle's creamy colour provides camouflage in its native desert habitat, and also gives this delicate ungulate its other name - the sand gazelle. Ghazal (Arabic) a wild goat; -ellus (Latin) diminutive suffix. Leptos (Greek) thin; keras (Greek) the horn of an animal. For more detailed information download the CMS Technical Series Publication No. 4 : Conservation Measures for Sahelo-Saharan Antelopes. Action Plan and Status Reports [ Cover Page (100KB) ; Entire Document (2,1 MB) ]
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