South African Oryx

The South African Oryx or Gemsbok (Oryx gazella) is a large antelope native to the arid regions of Southern Africa, such as the Kalahari Desert.
It is at home in vast shadeless spaces under a fiery sun sheltered by scant thorn trees. He is the thoroughbred of the desert, built like a polo pony with incredible strength and endurance, but sustained only on sparse desert grass. When deprived of drinking water it uses several measures to minimize its water needs, notably allowing its body temperature to rise from a normal 35.7°C to 45°C (113F) then using evaporative cooling by nasal panting and sweating. It also concentrates its urine and absorbs all possible moisture.
Gemsbok mostly feeds on nutritious leaves, grasses, and herbs. During the dry season, they feed on flowers and will also browse for food. To supplement water requirements gemsbok dig for succulents and extensively eat tsama melons.