The Arabian oryx Oryx leucoryx
The Arabian oryx, or white oryx, formerly occurred through the western Asia, where it inhabited deserts and semi-deserts. It is the smallest of all oryx; its shoulder height ranges between 80 and 100 cm and weight is up to 70 kg. Arabian oryx is highly specialized for the desert environment. Its white coat reflecting the sun’s rays protects the animal from the heat. When water becomes scarce and ambient temperatures are high, the Arabian oryx loses excessive body heat by allowing its body temperature to rise up to 46.5°C in the day, and drop to 36°C in the night time. Their brain is protected from the higher temperatures due to unique capillary system of the carotid, which cools the blood before it enters the brain. Arabian oryx feed on various grasses, leaves and buds and are able to live several days without water. When they do not have access to watering places, they would drink dew or even lick moisture off the fur of the members of their herd. Only pregnant females need to drink water every day. These antelopes have the ability to detect rainfall and new, lush grass, and move in the right direction. They usually rest during the day. Females and their young live in family groups consisting in average of five animals, while males are solitary.
