284 
EASTERN ETHIOPIA 
XXII 
African form is known as the Tufted Beisa [Oryx 
call Otis). 
The oryx is a beautiful antelope and stands four feet 
at the shoulders and weighs from 400 to 450 pounds. 
The horns, which sometimes attain a length of three 
feet, are annulated in the basal and polished in the 
The Beisa Antelope {Oryx heisa). This antelope is independent 
of water and flourishes where vegetation is scanty. When 
a herd of oiyx is on the march their long horns produce 
an appearance not unlike a regiment of soldiers marching 
with flxed bayonets. 
terminal half. The horns of the female are thinner and 
apt to be less symmetrical than those of the male. 
When wounded or brought to bay the oryx is a bold 
antelope, and must be approached with caution, for he 
will sweep the ground with these long horns in a deter¬ 
mined fashion. The oryx can go wdthout water for a 
long period, depending on the heavy dew for moisture. 
The Beisa antelope is also met with in East Africa, 
