Addax

The addax, known as a spiral-horned antelope, exhibits distinct physical characteristics that set it apart in the animal kingdom. Standing between 105 to 115 cm (41 to 45 in) at the shoulder for males and 95 to 110 cm (37 to 43 in) for females, they display sexual dimorphism, with females generally smaller than males. Both sexes share a head and body length of 120 to 130 cm (47 to 51 in) and a tail ranging from 25 to 35 cm (9.8 to 13.8 in). In terms of weight, males typically weigh between 100 to 125 kg (220 to 276 lb), while females range from 60 to 90 kg (130 to 200 lb).

Their coat coloring undergoes seasonal changes. In winter, it adopts a greyish-brown hue with white hindquarters and legs, complemented by long brown hair on the head, neck, and shoulders. Conversely, during the summer, the coat transforms into a predominantly white or sandy blonde shade. Characteristic brown or black patches form an ‘X’ over their noses, accompanied by scraggly beards and prominent red nostrils. Notably, long black hairs protrude between their curved and spiralling horns, culminating in a short mane along the neck.

Both male and female addaxes sport horns distinguished by two to three twists, typically measuring 55 to 80 cm (22 to 31 in) for females and 70 to 85 cm (28 to 33 in) for males, with exceptional cases reaching up to 109.2 cm (43.0 in). These horns display a series of 30 to 35 ring-shaped ridges along their lower and mid sections. The addax’s tail is short and slender, ending in a puff of black hair. Broad hooves equipped with flat soles and robust dewclaws facilitate navigation on soft sand, while scent glands are present on all four feet.

In the wild, the addax boasts a lifespan of up to 19 years, extendable to 25 years under captivity. While resembling the scimitar oryx, the addax distinguishes itself through its horn structure and facial markings. Notably, the scimitar oryx features straight, 127 cm (50 in) long horns, contrasting with the addax’s spiral-horned appearance. Facial distinctions are also apparent, with the addax exhibiting a brown hair tuft extending from the horn base to between its eyes, while the scimitar oryx showcases a white forehead with a distinctive brown lateral stripe across its eyes. Moreover, the addax’s unique dentition, akin to cattle, and absence of typical facial glands further differentiate it from other antelope species.