THE ANTELOPES

A family of 74 quite different species

Synopsis

Among mammals, antelopes epitomize the most dramatic form of evolution.

They account for 74 species in Africa. The smallest weights 1.5 kilos and is 0.2 meter high against 600 kilos and 1.8 meter for the biggest. They are all ruminants with hooves and horns but differ greatly in terms of diet, social organization and strategies against predators.

The formidable expansion of this animal family lies in its ability to choose successfully its own niche, even under the most extreme conditions.