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Also known as gemsbok, South African oryx are a visually striking, large African antelope with distinct markings and long, straight horns grown by both sexes. Males typically have horns that are heavier and have larger bases, while the females typically have longer, thinner horns with smaller bases. Approximately 46 inches at the shoulder and six feet in length, oryx males can weigh 300-500 pounds, while females are 50-100 pounds lighter. The thick, tan-colored hide covering the oryx is marked on the face with symmetrical black-and-white, triangular patches and broad stripes from the horns over the eyes to a white muzzle. Black stripes continue down the neck and around the underbody, forming bands around all four legs. A black stripe, also known as the “racing stripe,” extends along the spine from the short black mane at the neck to the black, tasseled tail. Frank C. Hibben, an avid big-game hunter and [...]

Barbary sheep, also known as aoudad, is one of three exotic big-game species hunted in New Mexico. Originally native to North Africa, Barbary sheep were first introduced to New Mexico in the 1940s by a private ranch in the southeastern part of the state. They were officially released in the 1950s in the Canadian River drainage near the Las Vegas Plateau. Since their release, there has been a rise in the popularity of hunting Barbary sheep in New Mexico, with licenses increasing to more than 1,000 annually. Barbary sheep are considered generalist herbivores and are highly flexible in their utilization of available food and water resources. They will feed on grasses, shrubs and forbs. During the winter months, grasses are the majority of their diet. In spring and summer, they consume more oak and mountain mahogany. Barbary sheep can withstand long periods of time without water and are able to [...]