What is an Addax?
The addax, also known as the white antelope, is a large mammal natively found in African Deserts such as the Sahara. It is known as a critically endangered species, surviving only in a handful of protected areas, and is estimated to have a population of less than 300.
The addax has a defined set of physical characteristics that distinguish it from other species. Generally speaking, it is a large antelope species, with the adult male standing around 1.4 metres at the shoulder, and weighing in at 70 kg. Its long white-grey coat grows thicker in the winter and is perfectly adapted to the desert, insulating the antelope from the extreme heat. With its hefty body, merkled patterns, and dark-rimmed face, the addax gains its wise and distinguished appearance.
Apart from their appearance, the most defining feature of addax is their behaviour. Unlike other antelopes, addax are incredibly determined creatures, ignoring all obstacle and fearlessly walking towards their goal. Addax are known to overturn debris, trample through scrub and climb cliffs in search of food and water, making them nearly unstoppable when it comes to survival.
A Threatened Species
The addax is a species at a risk of extinction. The main cause of this danger is associated with the destruction of their natural habitat, which has drastically dwindled over the years due to increased human activity. Hunting is also a contributing factor, as the antelope is widely poached for its meat and hide in certain areas.
Due to the animal’s declining numbers, the IUCN has listed the addax as a critically endangered species, and has put forth several measures to help protect its population. These include the establishment of protected areas, in which no hunting or destruction of the habitat is allowed. Additionally, non-profit organizations are working to educate the public about the addax and its situation, hoping to discover how to best conserve the species.
Adapting to Survive
The addax is a species that has had to adapt in order to survive in its natural environment. One of the most prominent adaptations is its ability to conserve water. Addax are able to feed at night and sleep during the day, and have evolved a thick insulating coat to protect them from the extreme heat of the desert.
The addax also has adapted a number of behaviours that contribute to the species’ survival. These include the so-called “drought strategy”, in which the antelope will travel long distances in search of food and water. The antelope also has an instinctive ability to avoid dangerous conditions, utilizing its incredible sense of smell and hearing to avoid predators, and its distinctive white coats to identify members of its own species.
A Signature Behaviour
One of the most unique behaviours of the addax is its tendency to “backwalk.” This curious behaviour involves the antelope walking backwards in a circle before eventually stopping and lying down. The purpose of this behaviour is not entirely understood, but experts hypothesize that it has something to do with maintaining balance in the ever-shifting desert sand.
The addax also have specific call that is only heard during the breeding season. This call is known to resonate across the desert, and is believed to indicate the readiness of a female to mate.
The Last of Its Kind
The addax is a species that is undeniably unique and extraordinary. Its remarkable adaptation to the harsh desert environment has fascinated and inspired generations, and its significance as a cornerstone of African wildlife makes preserving the species even more crucial. With its population drastically decreasing, concerted efforts must be made to save this majestic creature before it is too late.