These antelopes congregate in herds of 8 to 60 oryx. Newborn calves can run with the herd within minutes of their birth. Oryxes have a life span of about 20 years.
Some people think that the unicorn of legend was based upon the oryx.
Oryx have long, straight, ringed, permanent horns. Females have slightly longer but thinner horns. These horns provide excellent protection from predators, and have been known to kill lions and jackals. Oryxes have long legs, wide, hoofed feet, and long horns. The white to light brown coat camouflages them in the arid environment.