Heuglin Gazelle | Online Record Book Preview

Gazella rufifrons tilonura

Named after German zoologist M. T. von Heuglin (1824-1876).

DESCRIPTION The Heuglin gazelle is very similar in appearance to its close relative the red-fronted gazelle, though it has somewhat shorter horns. Its horns are said to be its distinguishing characteristic, with tips that turn sharply inward to form distinct hooks; however, this is not always the case, as many individuals have horns that are identical to those of the red-fronted.

The upper back is a sandy reddish color, and below that is a broad, buff-colored flank band from shoulder to hip. Below the flank band is a narrow dark brown-sometimes blackish-band, with a narrow reddish-fawn shadow band below that. Underparts and back of rump are white. The tail is reddish at the base and black elsewhere. There are no pygal (rump) stripes. Knee tufts are larger than in other races. The forehead and facial blaze are reddish, and there is white from the horn base over the eye and extending toward the muzzle. There is no nose spot. Ears are long and light colored.

DISTRIBUTION The Rahad and Atbara river basins in east central Sudan; the adjacent northwestern edge of Ethiopia; and western Eritrea.