The springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis) is a medium sized antelope found mainly in southern and southwestern Africa. The sole member of the genus Antidorcas was first described by the German zoologist von Zimmermann in 1780. A slender, long-legged antelope, the springbok reaches 71 to 86 cm (28 to 34 in) at the shoulder and weighs between 27 and 42 kg (60 and 93 lb). Both sexes have a pair of black, 35-to-50-centimeters (14 to 20 in) long horns that curve backward. The springbok is characterized by a white face, a dark stripe running from the eyes to the mouth, a light brown coat marked by a reddish brown stripe that runs from the upper foreleg to the buttocks across the flanks, and a white rump flap.

Active mainly at dawn and dusk, springbok form harems (mixed-sex herds). Springbok of the Kalahari desert and Karoo would migrate in large numbers across the countryside, a practice known as trekbokken. A feature unique to the springbok is pronking, in which the springbok performs multiple leaps into the air, up to 2 meters (6.6 ft) above the ground, in a stiff-legged posture, with the back bowed and the white flap lifted. The springbok is called a jumping antelope. Primarily a browser, the springbok feeds on shrubs and succulents and can live without drinking water for years, meeting its requirements through eating succulent vegetation. Breeding takes place year-round, and peaks in the rainy season, when forage is most abundant.

Have you ever heard about such a creature? Have you ever seen it? Do you know any other bizarre creatures or little-known facts about them?

More Info: en.wikipedia.org