A gazelle is one of many antelope species in the genus Gazella. Gazelles are found mostly in Africa; but they also inhabit southwest and central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. They are relatively small antelopes, standing 2–3 ½ feet (60–110 cm) high at the shoulder, generally fawn-colored.
“The chase is among the best of all national pastimes; it cultivates that vigorous manliness for the lack of which in a nation, as in an individual, the possession of no other qualities can possibly atone.”
T. Roosevelt
One of the traditional themes of Arabic love poetry involves comparing the gazelle with the beloved. They are slender animals, full of grace. The rulers of ancient Eastern empires enjoyed gazelle hunting due to its thrill. These antelopes are known as swift animals. Some are able to run at the speed of 60 mph (100 km/h) and make leaps up to 23 feet (7 m). They are agile game animals with acute hearing and vision. In most species, both males and females grow horns. Male horns average over 11 inches (around 30 cm). As a rule, they are hunted by spot and stalk nowadays.
