Antelope are diverse hoofed mammals primarily found in Africa and Asia. While many species possess horns, their appearance varies significantly between different species and even between sexes. Horns serve various purposes for these animals, influencing their survival and social interactions.
Horns Versus Antlers
Horns are permanent structures comprised of a bony core covered by a tough, keratinous sheath, similar to human fingernails. This outer layer grows continuously from the base and is never shed throughout the animal’s life. If a horn breaks, it generally does not regrow.
In contrast, antlers are entirely made of bone and are typically branched structures. Unlike horns, antlers are shed and regrown annually, a process influenced by hormonal changes. Deer species possess antlers, not horns. Antelope, belonging to the family Bovidae, consistently grow horns. The North American pronghorn is a unique exception; while often called an antelope, it has branched horns with a sheath that is shed each year, making its cranial appendages distinct from both true horns and antlers.
Variations in Antelope Horns
The presence and form of horns among antelopes exhibit considerable diversity. Most male antelopes possess horns, which vary widely in size, shape, and curvature across species. For example, the Greater Kudu is known for its impressive spiral horns, which can reach over 60 inches in length, while impalas have lyre-shaped horns that are ridged. Duikers, on the other hand, have short, straight spikes.
In many antelope species, both males and females grow horns, including well-known examples such as gazelles, oryx, elands, springboks, and hartebeests. When present in females, horns are typically thinner and often shorter than those of the males. Conversely, in other species, horns are exclusive to males, such as the impala, kudu, nyala, waterbuck, and royal antelope.
Purpose of Antelope Horns
Antelope horns serve a variety of functions related to survival and reproduction. One primary purpose is defense against predators. While running is often their first line of defense, antelopes can use their horns to fight back if cornered. Females, particularly those of larger species, may also use their horns to protect themselves and their young from threats.
Horns are also used in intraspecific combat, particularly among males competing for territory, dominance, and mating rights. These contests can involve clashing, pushing, or wrestling. The size, shape, and robustness of a male’s horns can be a visual display, signaling his health, strength, and overall fitness to potential mates and rivals.