Cuvier's gazelle

Presentation

Cuvier's gazelle is a slender small antelope from the arid regions of the Maghreb, characterized by its graceful build and ringed horns. This endemic ungulate is one of the most threatened species in North Africa, having suffered from excessive hunting and habitat degradation.

Light and slender body, with reddish-brown to gray coat depending on season. White face with a characteristic brown band. Both males and females bear ringed horns, which are longer and more divergent in males. Long and thin legs enable rapid running.

Characteristics

Indicative values: they vary by subspecies, sex and region.

Habitat and distribution

Prefers rocky steppes and mountainous slopes between 600 and 1500 meters altitude. Frequents semi-desert plateaus with sparse vegetation, where it finds shelter among rocks.

Behaviour

Diurnal and crepuscular, living in small herds of 2 to 6 individuals, sometimes up to 20. Highly agile and fast, capable of reaching 80 km/h when fleeing. Excellent vision and keen sense of smell help detect threats.

Reproduction

Breeding season occurs in spring, with a gestation period of approximately 5 to 6 months. Females give birth to one or two fawns after winter. Young follow their mother for several months before becoming independent.

Peculiarities

Its ability to survive in arid environments with little water is remarkable. Its ringed horns provide excellent wind resistance on slopes. It possesses a preorbital gland secreting scented liquid used to mark territory.

Threats and conservation

Vulnerable species facing major threats: excessive hunting and poaching, habitat degradation in steppe regions, overgrazing by livestock, and climate change reducing forage resources. Wild populations have declined drastically to fewer than 200 individuals.

References

UICN — Liste rouge des espèces menacées

Profile updated 08 August 2026 · Reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team.

CONSERVATION STATUS

Vulnerable (VU)

IUCN source, latest published assessment.

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