Springbok

A springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis) is a medium-sized antelope native to southwestern Africa. It is known for its graceful appearance and its unique high-jumping behavior called "pronking."

The springbok has a slender body with a long, slender neck and legs. Its coat is a light reddish-brown on its back, with a dark brown stripe running along its flanks. Its belly and face are white. Both males and females have horns, which are black and lyre-shaped. They have a distinctive pocket-like flap of skin on their backs, which can be seen when they pronk.

Springboks are well-adapted to the dry, arid environments of the African savannas and deserts, particularly in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Angola. They are herbivores that primarily graze on grasses, but they can also browse on leaves and shrubs, which helps them survive in a variety of conditions.

The most iconic behavior of the springbok is pronking, a series of high, stiff-legged jumps with an arched back. When a springbok pronks, the white patch of hair on its rump stands on end. This behavior is believed to be a signal to predators that the springbok is healthy and fit, making it an unprofitable target. It is also used to display dominance and as a form of play.