| Scientific Name:
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Damaliscus dorcas
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| Classification:
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Phylum: Chordata, Class: Mammalia, Order: Artiodactyla, Family: Artiodactyla
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| Status:
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Today they are commonly found on enclosed land in smaller herds, and numbers are estimated at 120 000.
Subspecies, bontebok is endangered
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| Range:
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South Africa
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| Habitat:
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High veldt, or higher elevation grasslands
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| Diet:
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Grazers; eating grass in sparse wooded areas
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| Size:
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Height: 34-40 in.
Weight: male - 143-176 lbs, female 121-154 lbs.
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| Lifespan:
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Up to 17 years.
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| Location:
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| Print Fact Sheet
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Blesbok
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Special Features:
Breeding and Caring for Young:
The Blesbok is a seasonal breeder. Rutting occurs during March to May. Births peak during November and December after a gestation period of about 240 days. Females give birth to single calves. Blesbok calves differ from most other small or medium antelope species by staying with their mothers instead of hiding.
Cultural & Conservation: The common name is a derivative of the Afrikaans words for blazed antelope, which is in reference to the white blaze found on their face. By eating grasses, Blesbok keep the grasslands trim, spawning new growth. They are food for larger predators. Their numbers suffer due to habitat loss and pelt trade. In addition, encroachment and competition with domestic livestock are a constant threat
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