272 CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES [Proc. 4th Ser. 



Explanation, Plate 6 

 ANTELOPE 



{Antilocapra americana) 



The Antelope or Pronghorn formerly ranged in immense numbers over 

 the plains and valleys of North America west of the Mississippi River 

 from Mexico to Canada. In California great herds were found through- 

 out the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys and in other valleys to the 

 north, east and south. As a result of persistent persecution and slaugh- 

 ter for their hides and meat, these animals have, in most parts of their 

 range, been entirely exterminated. In southeastern Oregon and north- 

 western Nevada they are still common. In California small isolated 

 bands are still left. In all these States they are protected by law. 



The Antelope is the only member of the hollow-horned animals which 

 annually sheds its horns. Only the outer shell or sheath, however, is 

 shed, and not the entire horn, as in the deer and elk. 



The Antelope is also unique in not possessing dew claws or accessory 

 hoofs on the backs of the feet, as in the deer. 



Group prepared under the direction of John Rowley. 



The background was painted by Charles Abel Corwin. 



Photo by Gabriel Moulin. 



