Springbok
Antidorcas marsupialis
marsupialis
Habitat: Open fields, near dry edges of bodies of water
Range: South and southwestern Africa
Shortly after entering the Zoo, right in the middle of Zebra
Plaza, you’ll notice a new hoofstock species sharing an exhibit with the kudu.
Two male springboks have joined the Zoo’s collection from San Diego Safari Park,
and are each not quite 2 years old.
The springbok is a striking animal, with beautiful
contrasting markings down the side of its body and face. It has two horns in
the shape of a lyre, measuring 14 inches in length. This animal demonstrates a
behavior called “pronking” when startled or excited. The springbok will leap
vertically in the air, often as much as 4 feet high, with its head down, back
arched, white rump patch flared and hooves together. The behavior is meant to
serve as a distraction to its predators, such as lions, cheetahs and hyenas.
Zoo location: African
Savannah