Cuvier's (Atlas) Mountain Gazelle

Cuvier's gazelle, also known as the edmi, is a distinctive species of gazelle native to Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Renowned for being one of the darkest-hued gazelles due to its partial woodland habitat, it is regrettably rare in the wild, with an estimated population of only about 2,000 individuals remaining.

This small gazelle stands between 60 and 69 cm tall and weighs around 35 kg. Its most notable feature is the dark bands along its sides, which aid in countershading. Historically, overhunting led to a significant decline in their numbers, but today, habitat destruction and competition with domestic livestock are the primary threats.

Cuvier's gazelles inhabit the Atlas Mountains in Northwestern Africa, favoring sandy or stony hills, plateaus, regenerating forests, and lush pine forests. They typically graze in low grasslands at specific times of the day.

During the mating season, these gazelles form social groups. Dominant males establish bachelor groups, and females join them after giving birth. Known for their vigilance and speed, Cuvier's gazelles can reach impressive speeds of over 50 mph.

Reproduction occurs in winter, with females usually giving birth in early spring. They often have twins and can breed twice a year. Their diet consists of leaves, grasses, and other vegetation, as they are herbivorous ruminants.

To protect this rare species, conservation efforts are ongoing. These include refuges in Tunisia and national parks in Algeria and Morocco. Reintroduction plans are also being developed to help increase their population.