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#9 - The Pronghorn
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Pronghorn, Antilocapra americana, is found on the plains and grassy slopes across most of western North American from Southern Alberta down to Texas and across to the mountains of the Southwest USA.
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The Pronghorn is sometimes called an antelope, however it is not a true antelope.
It somewhat resembles a deer, but is easily recognized by its straight horns which have a branch or "prong" where they start to curve backwards. The males all have horns; females may have smaller ones, or none at all. The horns grow a sheath which is shed and regrown each year. |
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Male pronghorns have a black stripe which runs from the ear to lower jaw. Both sexes have white bands across the throat as well as a white belly and behind. The hairs on the rump can flare up, signaling danger.
Pronghorns have a large heart and lungs which help it run in bursts of speed up to 70 mph (110 km/h). This, along with keen eyesight and the ability to see behind itself help detect and predators such as coyotes. |
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Pronghorns usually have two calves, born in the spring. The new-born are soon on their feet and within a few weeks they can keep up with the herd.
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| Dereila Nature Inn Home > Woodlands Pathway > Walking in the Wild > The Pronghorn |
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