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nomadic, unlike many North African antelopes. Surprisingly little is
known about it, but it is believed that births are seasonal and twins
are not unusual.
Distribution and Status Cuvier’s Gazelle is largely restricted to high
country in Morocco and northern Algeria, with a small population in
western Tunisia. Populations have been decimated by hunting and
competition with domestic livestock; only about 1,000 individuals
survive.
Conservation Areas Saharan Atlas NP, Belezma NP, Mergueb State
NR, Djebel Senalba NSF (Algeria); Djebil Chambi NP (Tunisia).
DORCAS GAZELLE Gazella dorcas
Identification This is a small gazelle that lacks distinctive features.
The overall body colour is pale- to sandy-fawn, with white underparts,
inner legs and buttocks. The lateral body stripe is usually pale and
indistinct, especially when observed from a distance. The short black
tail contrasts with the white inner buttock region. There are white
stripes on the face and under the jaw, and a distinctive brown blaze on
the face. The horns are not particularly long (25–37 cm), lyrate (lyre-
shaped) and strongly ringed; the horns of females are more slender
and shorter than those of males.