Oryx is one of four large antelope species of the genus Oryx, native to arid parts of Africa, with a fourth native to the Arabian Peninsula. Their pelage is pale with contrasing dark markings in the face and on the legs, and their long horns are almost straight. Small populations of several oryx species, such as the Scimitar Oryx, exist in Texas and New Mexico (USA) in wild game ranches.  Within the state of New Mexico, oryxes are classified as "big game" and can be harvested with the proper license.
All oryx species prefer near-desert conditions and can survive without water for long periods. They live in herds of up to 600 animals. Newborn calves are able to run with the herd immediately after birth. Both males and females possess permanent horns.

 The horns are narrow, and straight except in the Scimitar Oryx, where they curve backwards like a scimitar. The horns are lethal, oryx has been known to kill lions with them. The horns also make the animals a prized game trophy and could be a treasured memento of your African safari oryx hunt.