NUBIAN IBEX
Bubalis nubiana
DESCRIPTION
The Nubian ibex is a species of ibex found in the mountainous regions of northeastern Africa. It is known for its impressive curved horns and ability to navigate steep, rocky terrains.
FUN FACTS
- Nubian ibex can leap up to 6 feet high | They are excellent climbers, able to navigate steep and rocky terrains with ease | Males can weigh up to 100 kg
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight50-100 kg
Average Length1.2-1.5 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuregroup — typically found in small herds, often consisting of females and their young.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonFall (September-November)
- Habitat
- Nubian ibex inhabit rocky, mountainous areas and steep cliffs, often in arid or semi-arid regions. They are well adapted to harsh environments with limited water sources.
- Biomes
- Desert, Mountain
- Native Range
- Northeastern Africa, particularly in the mountainous regions of Egypt, Sudan, and Saudi Arabia.
- Continent
- Africa, Asia
- Countries
- Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia
- Diet
- Nubian ibex are herbivores that primarily graze on grasses, leaves, and shrubs. They are well adapted to arid environments and can survive on sparse vegetation.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, leaves, shrubs
- Social Structure
- group — typically found in small herds, often consisting of females and their young.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-20
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
50-100 kg
Weight
1.2-1.5 m
Length
0.8-1.0 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- light brown to tan with white markings on the face and legs
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are larger with longer horns than females
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 150 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Fall (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable but faces threats from habitat loss and hunting.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 10,000-15,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to human encroachment and hunting. Climate change also poses a risk to their arid habitats.
- Predators
- leopards, wolves
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use their agility to escape predators by climbing steep cliffs and rocky outcrops.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon