Gerenuk photo also called giraffe gazelle in Kenya

The Gerenuk,

also known as the Giraffe-necked Antelope, is an unusual species of antelope found in East Africa. It's scientific name is Litocranius walleri, and it is a member of the Giraffidae family.

The Gerenuk is best known for its unique appearance. It stands at an average of 90-105 cm (35-41 inches) at the shoulder and can reach up to 2 meters (6 feet) in length. Its most distinctive feature is its long neck, which is nearly as long as its body. This gives it a giraffe-like appearance, hence its common name. Its coat is sandy brown with white spotting, and its horns are long and thin.

The Gerenuk is a very specialized species, adapted for life in the dry and arid environments of the African savanna. It is a browser, feeding mainly on shrubs and succulents, and can reach up to 2 meters in height to reach food. It also has the ability to stand on its hind legs to reach higher branches.

The Gerenuk is also an adept climber and can scale trees and rocky outcrops to avoid predators. It is also a very fast runner and can outrun many predators.

The Gerenuk has a wide range, spanning much of East Africa, from Ethiopia to Kenya. It prefers open savanna and semi-arid grassland habitats.

Unfortunately, the Gerenuk is listed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN. This is due to habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as hunting pressure. Conservation efforts are underway to help protect the species and its habitat, but more needs to be done to ensure its long-term survival.

Photo of a Gerenuk in Kenya

The Gerenuk,

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