Editing Springbok

{{Short description|Antelope of southwest and south Africa}}
{{About|the antelope|the sports team named the "Springboks"|South Africa national rugby union team|other uses}}
{{Featured article}}
{{Use South African English|date=January 2023}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2022}}
{{Speciesbox
| name = Springbok
| fossil_range = {{fossil range|Pleistocene|Recent}}
| status = LC
| status_system = IUCN3.1
| status_ref =<ref>{{cite iucn |title=''Antidorcas marsupialis'' |author=IUCN SSC Antelope Specialist Group |year=2016 |page=e.T1676A115056763}}</ref>
| image = Antidorcas marsupialis, male (Etosha, 2012).jpg
| image_caption = Male at [[Etosha National Park]]
| image_upright = 1.2
| genus = Antidorcas
| species = marsupialis
| authority = ([[Eberhard August Wilhelm von Zimmermann|Zimmermann]], 1780)
| subdivision_ranks = Subspecies
| subdivision = * ''A. m. angolensis'' {{small|(Blaine, 1922)}}
* ''A. m. hofmeyri'' {{small|([[Oldfield Thomas|Thomas]], 1926)}}
* ''A. m. marsupialis'' {{small|(Zimmermann, 1780)}}
| display_parents = 2
| synonyms_ref = <ref name=Cain2004/>
| synonyms = {{collapsible list|title=List
|''Antidorcas euchore'' {{small|(Sundevall, 1847)}}
|''Antilope dorsata'' {{small|([[François Marie Daudin|Daudin]], 1802)}}
|''A. marsupialis'' {{small|(Zimmermann, 1780)}}
|''A. saccata'' {{small|([[Pieter Boddaert|Boddaert]], 1785)}}
|''A. saliens'' {{small|(Daudin, 1802)}}
|''A. saltatrix'' {{small|(Link, 1795)}}
|''Capra pygargus'' {{small|([[Carl Peter Thunberg|Thunberg]], 1795)}}
|''Cemas marsupialis'' {{small|([[Lorenz Oken|Oken]], 1816)}}
|''Cerophorus euchore'' {{small|([[Henri Marie Ducrotay de Blainville|de Blainville]], 1816)}}
|''Gazella sautante'' {{small|(Burton, 1782)}}
}}
| range_map = Springbok Distribution.svg
| range_map_caption = Range map of springbok
}}

The '''springbok''' or '''springbuck''' ('''''Antidorcas marsupialis''''') is an [[antelope]] found mainly in south and southwest Africa. The sole member of the [[genus (biology)|genus]] ''Antidorcas'', this [[bovid]] was first [[Species description|described]] by the German zoologist [[Eberhard August Wilhelm von Zimmermann]] in 1780. Three [[subspecies]] are identified. A slender, long-legged antelope, the springbok reaches {{cvt|71|to|86|cm|in}} at the shoulder and weighs between {{cvt|27|and|42|kg}}. Both sexes have a pair of black, {{cvt|35|to|50|cm|in|adj=on}} long [[horn (anatomy)|horns]] that curve backwards. The springbok is characterised by a white face, a dark stripe running from the eyes to the mouth, a light brown [[coat (animal)|coat]] marked by a reddish-brown stripe that runs from the upper foreleg to the buttocks across the flanks like the [[Thomson's gazelle]], and a white [[Rump (animal)|rump]] flap.

Active mainly at dawn and dusk, springbok form [[harem (zoology)|harem]]s (mixed-sex herds). In earlier times, springbok of the [[Kalahari Desert]] and [[Karoo]] migrated in large numbers across the countryside, a practice known as ''trekbokking''. A feature, peculiar but not unique, to the springbok is [[pronking]], in which the springbok performs multiple leaps into the air, up to {{cvt|2|m|ft}} above the ground, in a stiff-legged posture, with the back bowed and the white flap lifted. Primarily a [[Browsing (herbivory)|browser]], the springbok feeds on shrubs and [[succulent plant|succulent]]s; this antelope can live without drinking water for years, meeting its requirements through eating succulent vegetation. Breeding takes place year-round, and peaks in the rainy season, when forage is most abundant. A single calf is born after a five- to six-month-long pregnancy; weaning occurs at nearly six months of age, and the calf leaves its mother a few months later.

Springbok inhabit the dry areas of south and southwestern Africa. The [[IUCN|International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources]] classifies the springbok as a [[least concern]] species. No major threats to the long-term survival of the species are known; the springbok, in fact, is one of the few antelope species considered to have an expanding population. They are popular game animals, and are valued for their meat and skin. The springbok is the national animal of [[South Africa]].

== Etymology ==
The common name "springbok", first recorded in 1775, comes from the [[Afrikaans Language|Afrikaans]] words {{lang|af|spring}} ("jump") and {{lang|af|bok}} ("[[antelope]]" or "[[goat]]").<ref name=Cain2004/> The [[Binomial nomenclature|scientific name]] of the springbok is ''Antidorcas marsupialis''. {{Transliteration|grc|Anti}} is [[Greek language|Greek]] for "opposite", and {{Transliteration|grc|dorcas}} for "[[gazelle]]" – identifying the animal as not a gazelle. The [[specific name (zoology)|specific epithet]] ''marsupialis'' comes from the [[Latin language|Latin]] {{lang|la|marsupium}} ("pocket"), and refers to a pocket-like skin flap which extends along the midline of the back from the tail,<ref name=Bigalke1972/> which distinguishes the springbok from true gazelles.<ref name=rafferty>{{cite book|last1=Rafferty|first1=J.P.|title=Grazers|url=https://archive.org/details/grazers0000raff|url-access=registration|date=2011|publisher=Britannica Educational Pub.|location=New York|isbn=978-1-61530-465-3|pages=[https://archive.org/details/grazers0000raff/page/103 103]–104|edition=1st}}</ref>

== Taxonomy and evolution ==
The springbok, in the [[family (biology)|family]] [[Bovidae]],<ref name =MSW3>{{MSW3 Artiodactyla | id = 14200530 | page = 678}}</ref>  was first [[Species description|described]] by the German zoologist [[Eberhard August Wilhelm von Zimmermann]] in 1780, who assigned the genus ''Antilope'' ([[blackbuck]]) to the springbok.<ref>{{cite book|last1=von Zimmermann|first1=E.A.W.|author-link=Eberhard August Wilhelm von Zimmermann|title=Geographische Geschichte des Menschen, und der Allgemein Verbreiteten Vierfüssigen Thiere: Nebst Einer Hieher Gehörigen Zoologischen Weltcharte|url=https://archive.org/details/bub_gb__pQ-AAAAcAAJ|date=1780|publisher=In der Weygandschen Buchhandlung|location=Leipzig|page=[https://archive.org/details/bub_gb__pQ-AAAAcAAJ/page/n492 427]|language=de}} {{open access}}</ref> In 1845, Swedish zoologist [[Carl Jakob Sundevall]] placed the springbok as the sole living member of the [[genus (biology)|genus]] ''[[Antidorcas#Modern taxonomy|Antidorcas]]''.<ref name="Sundevall">{{cite journal|last1=Sundevall|first1=C.J.|author-link=Carl Jakob Sundevall|title=Melhodisk öfversigt af Idislande djuren, Linnés Pecora|journal=Kungl. Svenska Vetenskapsakademiens Handlingar|year=1844|page=271|url=https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/item/182326#page/795/mode/1up|series=3|volume=32|language=sv}} {{open access}}</ref>

===Subspecies===
Three [[subspecies]] of ''Antidorcas marsupialis'' are recognised:<ref name=Cain2004/><ref name=groves>{{cite book|last1=Groves|first1=C.|last2=Grubb|first2=P.|author1-link=Colin Groves|author2-link=Peter Grubb (zoologist)|title=Ungulate Taxonomy|date=2011|publisher=Johns Hopkins University Press|location=Baltimore|isbn=978-1-4214-0093-8|pages=154–155}}</ref>
* ''A. m. angolensis'' <small>(Blaine, 1922)</small> – Occurs in [[Benguela]] and [[Moçâmedes]] (southwestern [[Angola]]).
* ''A. m. hofmeyri'' <small>([[Oldfield Thomas|Thomas]], 1926)</small> – Occurs in [[Berseba]] and [[Great Namaqualand]] (southwestern Africa). Its range lies north of the [[Orange River]], stretching from [[Upington]] and [[Sandfontein]] through Botswana to Namibia.
* ''A. m. marsupialis'' <small>(Zimmermann, 1780)</small> – Its range lies south of the Orange River, extending from the northeastern [[Cape of Good Hope]] to the Free State and [[Kimberley, Northern Cape|Kimberley]].

===Evolution===
Fossil springbok are known from the [[Pliocene]]; the antelope appears to have evolved about three million years ago from a gazelle-like ancestor. Three fossil species of ''Antidorcas'' have been identified, in addition to the extant form, and appear to have been widespread across Africa. Two of these, ''[[Antidorcas bondi|A. bondi]]'' and ''[[Antidorcas australis|A. australis]]'', became extinct around 7,000 years ago (early [[Holocene]]). The third species, ''[[Antidorcas recki|A. recki]]'', probably gave rise to the extant form ''A. marsupialis'' during the [[Pleistocene]], about 100,000 years ago.<ref name=Cain2004/><ref name=Vrba1973>{{cite journal | last = Vrba | first = E.S. | author-link = Elisabeth Vrba | year = 1973 | title = Two species of ''Antidorcas'' (Sundevall) at Swartkrans (Mammalia: Bovidae) | journal = Annals of the Transvaal Museum | volume = 28 | issue = 15 | url=http://hdl.handle.net/10499/AJ6704 | pages = 287–351| hdl = 10499/AJ6704 }} {{open access}}</ref> Fossils have been reported from Pliocene, Pleistocene, and Holocene sites in northern, southern, and eastern Africa. Fossils dating back to 80 and 100 thousand years ago have been excavated at [[Herolds Bay|Herolds Bay Cave]] ([[Western Cape Province]], South Africa) and [[Florisbad archaeological and paleontological site|Florisbad]] ([[Free State (province)|Free State]]), respectively.<ref name=Cain2004/>

== Description ==
[[File:Springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis hofmeyri) juvenile head composite.jpg|thumb|Horn development in males<br />juvenile (left); sub-adult (right)]]

The springbok is a slender antelope with long legs and neck. Both sexes reach {{cvt|71|–|86|cm|in}} at the shoulder with a head-and-body length typically between {{cvt|120|and|150|cm}}.<ref name=Cain2004/> The weights for both sexes range between {{cvt|27|and|42|kg}}. The tail, {{cvt|14|to|28|cm}} long, ends in a short, black tuft.<ref name=Cain2004/><ref name=nowak>{{cite book|last1=Nowak|first1=R.M.|title=Walker's Mammals of the World|url=https://archive.org/details/walkersmammalsof0002nowa|url-access=registration|date=1999|publisher=Johns Hopkins University Press|location=Baltimore|isbn=978-0-8018-5789-8|pages=[https://archive.org/details/walkersmammalsof0002nowa/page/1202 1202–1203]|edition=6th}}</ref> Major differences in the size and weight of the subspecies are seen. A study tabulated average body measurements for the three subspecies. ''A. m. angolensis'' males stand {{cvt|84|cm|in}} tall at the shoulder, while females are {{cvt|81|cm|in}} tall. The males weigh around {{cvt|31|kg|lb}}, while the females weigh {{cvt|32|kg|lb}}. ''A. m. hofmeyri'' is the largest subspecies; males are nearly {{cvt|86|cm}} tall, and the notably shorter females are {{cvt|71|cm|in}} tall. The males, weighing {{cvt|42|kg|lb}}, are heavier than females, that weigh {{cvt|35|kg|lb}}. However, ''A. m. marsupialis'' is the smallest subspecies; males are {{cvt|75|cm|in}} tall and females {{cvt|72|cm|in}} tall. Average weight of males is {{cvt|31|kg|lb}}, while for females it is {{cvt|27|kg|lb}}.<ref name=Cain2004/> Another study showed a strong correlation between the availability of winter dietary protein and the body mass.<ref name=robinson>{{cite journal|last1=Robinson|first1=T.J.|title=Influence of a nutritional parameter on the size differences of the three springbok subspecies|journal=[[African Zoology|South African Journal of Zoology]]|year=1979|volume=14|issue=1|pages=13–15|doi=10.1080/02541858.1979.11447642}}</ref>

Dark stripes extend across the white face, from the corner of the eyes to the mouth. A dark patch marks the forehead. In juveniles, the stripes and the patch are light brown. The ears, narrow and pointed, measure {{cvt|15|–|19|cm|in}}. Typically light brown, the springbok has a dark reddish-brown band running horizontally from the upper foreleg to the edge of the buttocks, separating the dark back from the white underbelly. The tail (except the terminal black tuft), buttocks, the insides of the legs and the [[Rump (animal)|rump]] are all white. Two other varieties – pure black and pure white [[morph (zoology)|form]]s – are [[Artificial selection|artificially selected]] in some South African ranches.<ref name=kingdon/> Though born with a deep black sheen, adult black springbok are two shades of chocolate-brown and develop a white marking on the face as they mature. White springbok, as the name suggests, are predominantly white with a light tan stripe on the flanks.<ref name=Cain2004/><ref name=kingdon/>
{{Gallery
| title=The three springbok varieties
| width=160
| height=170
| align=right
|File:Normal_Springbok.svg| Typical springbok
|File:Black_Springbok.svg| Pure black springbok
|File:White_Springbok.svg| Pure white springbok
}}

The three subspecies also differ in their colour. ''A. m. angolensis'' has a brown to tawny coat, with thick, dark brown stripes on the face extending two-thirds down to the [[Muzzle (animal)|snout]]. While the lateral stripe is nearly black, the stripe on the rump is dark brown. The medium brown forehead patch extends to eye level and is separated from the bright white face by a dark brown border. A brown spot is seen on the nose. ''A. m. hofmeyri'' is a light fawn, with thin, dark brown face stripes. The stripes on the flanks are dark brown to black, and the posterior stripes are moderately brown. The forehead patch, dark brown or fawn, extends beyond the level of the eyes and mixes with the white of the face without any clear barriers. The nose may have a pale smudge. ''A. m. marsupialis'' is a rich chestnut brown, with thin, light face stripes. The stripe near the rump is well-marked, and that on the flanks is deep brown. The forehead is brown, fawn, or white, the patch not extending beyond the eyes and having no sharp boundaries. The nose is white or marked with brown.<ref name=groves/>

The skin along the middle of the [[dorsa]]l side is folded in, and covered with {{cvt|15|to|20|cm}} white hair erected by [[arrector pili muscle]]s (located between [[hair follicle]]s). This white hair is almost fully concealed by the surrounding brown hairs until the fold opens up, and this is a major feature distinguishing this antelope from gazelles.<ref name=Cain2004/> Springbok differ from gazelles in several other ways; for instance, springbok have two [[premolar]]s on both sides of either jaw, rather than the three observed in gazelles. This gives a total of 28 teeth in the springbok, rather than 32 of gazelles.<ref name="Cain2004">{{cite journal|last1=Cain III|first1=J.W.|last2=Krausman|first2=P.R.|last3=Germaine|first3=H.L.|title=''Antidorcas marsupialis''|journal=[[Mammalian Species]]|year=2004|volume=753|pages=1–7|doi=10.1644/753|s2cid=198127817|doi-access=free}} {{open access}}</ref> Other points of difference include a longer, broader, and rigid bridge to the nose and more muscular cheeks in springbok, and differences in the structure of the horns.<ref name=kingdon/>

Both sexes have black horns, about {{cvt|35|–|50|cm}} long, that are straight at the base and then curve backward. In ''A. m. marsupialis'', females have thinner horns than males; the horns of females are only 60 to 70% as long as those of males. Horns have a girth of {{cvt|71|–|83|mm|in}} at the base; this thins to {{cvt|56|–|65|mm|in}} towards the tip. In the other two subspecies, horns of both sexes are nearly similar. The [[Spoor (animal)|spoor]], narrow and sharp, is {{cvt|5.5|cm}} long.<ref name=Cain2004/>

== Ecology and behaviour ==
[[File:Springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis hofmeyri) in the road.jpg|thumb|A herd on the road<br />[[Etosha National Park]], [[Namibia]]]]
Springbok are mainly active around dawn and dusk. Activity is influenced by weather; springbok can feed at night in hot weather, and at midday in colder months. They rest in the shade of trees or bushes, and often bed down in the open when weather is cooler.<ref name=Skinner1996>{{cite book | last1= Skinner |first1=J.D. |last2=Louw |first2=G.N. | year = 1996 | title = The Springbok ''Antidorcas marsupialis'' (Zimmerman 1780) (Transvaal Museum Monographs) | volume = 10 | isbn=978-0-907990-16-1 | pages = 1–50 |publisher=Transvaal Museum |hdl=10499/AJ10123 | url = http://hdl.handle.net/10499/AJ10123}}{{open access}}</ref>

The social structure of the springbok is similar to that of [[Thomson's gazelle]]. Mixed-sex herds or [[harem (zoology)|harem]]s have a roughly 3:1 sex ratio; bachelor individuals are also observed.<ref name=Bigalke1970>{{cite journal | last = Bigalke | first = R.C. | year = 1970 | title = Observations of springbok populations | journal = [[African Zoology|Zoologica Africana]] | volume = 5 | issue = 1 | pages = 59–70 | doi=10.1080/00445096.1970.11447381| hdl = 10499/AJ19336 | doi-access = free }} {{open access}}</ref> In the mating season, males generally form herds and wander in search of mates. Females live with their offspring in herds, that very rarely include [[Dominance (ethology)|dominant]] males. [[territory (animal)|Territorial]] males round up female herds that enter their territories and keep out the bachelors; mothers and juveniles may gather in nursery herds separate from harem and bachelor herds. After weaning, female juveniles stay with their mothers until the birth of their next calves, while males join bachelor groups.<ref name=kingdon>{{cite book|last1=Kingdon|first1=J.|author-link=Jonathan Kingdon|title=The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals|date=2015|publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing|location=London|isbn=978-1-4729-1236-7|pages=571–572|edition=2nd}}</ref>

A study of vigilance behaviour of herds revealed that individuals on the borders of herds tend to be more cautious, and vigilance decreases with group size. Group size and distance from roads and bushes were found to have major influence on vigilance, more among the grazing springbok than among their browsing counterparts. Adults were found to be more vigilant than juveniles, and males more vigilant than females. Springbok passing through bushes tend to be more vulnerable to predator attacks as they cannot be easily alerted, and predators usually conceal themselves in bushes.<ref name=burger>{{cite journal|last1=Burger|first1=J.|last2=Safina|first2=C.|last3=Gochfeld|first3=M.|title=Factors affecting vigilance in springbok: importance of vegetative cover, location in herd, and herd size|journal=[[Acta Ethologica]]|year=2000|volume=2|issue=2|pages=97–104|doi=10.1007/s102119900013|s2cid=11400003}}</ref> Another study calculated that the time spent in vigilance by springbok on the edges of herds is roughly double that spent by those in the centre and the open. Springbok were found to be more cautious in the late morning than at dawn or in the afternoon, and more at night than in the daytime. Rates and methods of vigilance were found to vary with the aim of lowering risk from predators.<ref name=ritter2>{{cite journal|last1=Bednekoff|first1=P.A.|last2=Ritter|first2=R.|title=Vigilance in Nxai Pan springbok, ''Antidorcas marsupialis''|journal=[[Behaviour (journal)|Behaviour]]|year=1994|volume=129|issue=1|pages=1–11|doi=10.1163/156853994X00325}}</ref>
[[File:Locking horns - Springbuck.jpg|left|thumbnail|Springbok locking horns in a fight]]

During the [[rut (mammalian reproduction)|rut]], males establish territories, ranging from {{convert|10|to|70|ha}},<ref name=Cain2004/> which they [[territorial marking|mark]] by urinating and depositing large piles of dung.<ref name=Bigalke1972/> Males in neighbouring territories frequently fight for access to females, which they do by twisting and levering at each other with their horns, interspersed with stabbing attacks. Females roam the territories of different males. Outside of the rut, mixed-sex herds can range from as few as three to as many as 180 individuals, while all-male bachelor herds are of typically no more than 50 individuals. Harem and nursery herds are much smaller, typically including no more than 10 individuals.<ref name=Cain2004/>
[[File:Springbok pronk.jpg|thumb|A [[pronking]] springbok]]
In earlier times, when large populations of springbok roamed the [[Kalahari Desert]] and [[Karoo]], millions of migrating springbok formed herds hundreds of kilometres long that could take several days to pass a town.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Great Hunters | year=1974 | last=Haresnape |first=G.|isbn=978-0-360-00232-6|publisher=[[Purnell and Sons]]}}</ref> These mass treks, known as ''trekbokking'' in Afrikaans, took place during long periods of drought. Herds could efficiently retrace their paths to their territories after long migrations.<ref name=kingdon/> ''Trekbokking'' is still observed occasionally in [[Botswana]], though on a much smaller scale than earlier.<ref name=estes/><ref name=child>{{cite journal|last1=Child|first1=G.|last2=Le Riche|first2=J.D.|title=Recent springbok treks (mass movements) in southwestern Botswana|journal=Mammalia|year=1969|volume=33|issue=3|pages=499–504|doi=10.1515/mamm.1969.33.3.499|s2cid=83613809}}</ref>

Springbok often go into bouts of repeated high leaps of up to {{cvt|2|m}} into the air – a practice known as [[pronking]] (derived from the Afrikaans ''pronk'', "to show off") or stotting.<ref name=Cain2004/> In pronking, the springbok performs multiple leaps into the air in a stiff-legged posture, with the back bowed and the white flap lifted. When the male shows off his strength to attract a mate, or to ward off predators, he starts off in a stiff-legged trot, leaping into the air with an arched back every few paces and lifting the flap along his back. Lifting the flap causes the long white hairs under the tail to stand up in a conspicuous fan shape, which in turn emits a strong scent of sweat.<ref name=Bigalke1972>{{cite journal | last= Bigalke |first= R.C. | year = 1972 | title = Observations on the behaviour and feeding habits of the springbok ''Antidorcas marsupialis'' | journal = [[African Zoology|Zoologica Africana]] | volume = 7 | issue = 1 | pages = 333–359 | doi=10.1080/00445096.1972.11447448|hdl= 10499/AJ19390 | doi-access = free }} {{open access}}</ref> Although the exact cause of this behaviour is unknown, springbok exhibit this activity when they are nervous or otherwise excited. The most accepted theory for pronking is that it is a method to raise alarm against a potential predator or confuse it, or to get a better view of a concealed predator; it may also be used for [[Display (zoology)|display]].

Springbok are very [[Fastest animals|fast]] antelopes, clocked at {{cvt|88|km/h|mph}}. They generally tend to be ignored by carnivores unless they are breeding.<ref name=richard>{{cite book|last1=Richard|first1=W.|last2=Milton|first2=S.J.|last3=Dean|first3=J.|title=The Karoo: Ecological Patterns and Processes|url=https://archive.org/details/karooecologicalp00dean|url-access=limited|date=1999|publisher=Cambridge University Press|location=Cambridge, UK|isbn=978-0-521-12687-8|page=[https://archive.org/details/karooecologicalp00dean/page/n184 159]}}</ref> [[Cheetah]]s, [[lion]]s, [[leopard]]s, [[spotted hyena]]s, [[African wild dog|wild dogs]], [[caracal]]s, [[Nile crocodile|crocodiles]] and [[Southern African rock python|pythons]] are major predators of the springbok. [[Southern African wildcat]]s, [[black-backed jackal]]s, [[Verreaux's Eagle]]s, [[martial eagle]]s, and [[tawny eagle]]s target juveniles.<ref name=Cain2004/> Springbok are generally quiet animals, though they may make occasional low-pitched bellows as a greeting and high-pitched snorts when alarmed.<ref name=Bigalke1972/>

=== Parasites ===
A 2012 study on the effects of rainfall patterns and parasite infections on the body of the springbok in [[Etosha National Park]] observed that males and juveniles were in better health toward the end of the rainy season. Health of females was more affected by parasites than by rainfall; parasite count in females peaked prior to and immediately after parturition.<ref name="Turner2012">{{cite journal|last1=Turner|first1=W.C.|last2=Versfeld|first2=W.D.|last3=Kilian|first3=J.W.|last4=Getz|first4=W.M.|title=Synergistic effects of seasonal rainfall, parasites, and demography on fluctuations in springbok body condition|journal=Journal of Animal Ecology|date=2012|volume=81|issue=1|pages=58–69|doi=10.1111/j.1365-2656.2011.01892.x|pmid=21831195|pmc=3217112|bibcode=2012JAnEc..81...58T }} {{open access}}</ref> Studies show that springbok host [[helminth]]s (''[[Haemonchus]]'', ''[[Longistrongylus]]'' and ''[[Trichostrongylus]]''), [[ixodid]] [[tick]]s (''[[Rhipicephalus]]'' species), lice (''[[Damalinia]]'' and ''[[Linognathus]]'' species).<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Horak|first1=I.G.|last2=Meltzer|first2=D.G.A.|last3=Vos|first3=V.D.|title=Helminth and arthropod parasites of springbok, ''Antidorcas marsupialis'', in the Transvaal and western Cape Province|journal=Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research|date=1982|volume=49|issue=1|pages=7–10|pmid=7122069|url=http://phthiraptera.info/Publications/8148.pdf|access-date=18 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160505154347/http://phthiraptera.info/Publications/8148.pdf|archive-date=5 May 2016|url-status=dead}} {{open access}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|last1=Horak|first1=I.G.|last2=Anthonissen|first2=M.|last3=Krecek|first3=R.C.|last4=Boomker|first4=J.|title=Arthropod parasites of springbok, gemsbok, kudus, giraffes and Burchell's and Hartmann's zebras in the Etosha and Hardap Nature Reserves, Namibia|journal=Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research|date=1992|volume=59|issue=4|pages=253–257|pmid=1297955|url=http://www.the-eis.com/data/literature/Arthropod%20parasites%20_1992.pdf}} {{open access}}</ref> ''[[Eimeria]]'' species mainly affect juveniles.<ref name=Turner2012/>

=== Diet ===
[[File:SPRINGBOK.jpg|thumb|Springbok feed on [[succulent plant|succulent grass]]es.]]

Springbok are primarily [[Browsing (herbivory)|browser]]s and may switch to grazing occasionally; they feed on shrubs and young [[succulent plant|succulent]]s (such as ''[[Lampranthus]]'' species) before they [[Lignified|lignify]].<ref name=east/> They prefer grasses such as ''[[Themeda triandra]]''. Springbok can meet their water needs from the food they eat, and are able to survive without drinking water through dry season. In extreme cases, they do not drink any water over the course of their lives. Springbok may accomplish this by selecting flowers, seeds, and leaves of shrubs before dawn, when the food items are most succulent.<ref>{{cite journal |first1=K.A. |last1=Nagy |first2=M.H. |last2=Knight |year=1994 |title=Energy, water, and food use by springbok antelope (''Antidorcas marsupialis'') in the Kalahari Desert |journal=[[Journal of Mammalogy]] |volume=75 |issue=4 |pages=860–872 |jstor=1382468 |doi=10.2307/1382468 |s2cid=83882358 }}</ref> In places such as Etosha National Park, springbok seek out water bodies where they are available.<ref name=east/> Springbok gather in the wet season and disperse during the dry season, unlike other African mammals.<ref name =east/>

=== Reproduction ===
[[File:Springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis hofmeyri) suckling.jpg|thumb|A mother suckling her offspring]]
Springbok mate year-round, though females are more likely to enter [[oestrus]] during the rainy season, when food is more plentiful.<ref name=Skinner1996/> Females are able to conceive at as early as six to seven months, whereas males do not attain [[sexual maturity]] until two years;<ref name=rafferty/> rut lasts 5 to 21 days.<ref name=kingdon/> When a female approaches a rutting male, the male holds his head and tail at level with the ground, lowers his horns, and makes a loud grunting noise to attract her. The male then urinates and sniffs the female's [[perineum]]. If the female is receptive, she urinates, as well, and the male makes a [[flehmen]] gesture, and taps his leg till the female leaves or permits him to mate.<ref name=Bigalke1972/><ref name=David1978>{{cite journal | last = David | first = J.H.M. | year = 1978 | title = Observations on territorial behaviour of springbok, ''Antidorcas marsupialis'', in the Bontebok National Park, Swellendam | journal = [[African Zoology|Zoologica Africana]] | volume = 13 | issue = 1 | pages = 123–141 | doi=10.1080/00445096.1978.11447611| hdl = 10499/AJ24053 | doi-access = free }} {{open access}}</ref> [[Copulation (zoology)|Copulation]] consists of a single pelvic thrust.<ref>Skinner, G. N. "[https://journals.co.za/content/ATM_Monographs/10/1/AJA090799001_50?crawler=true The Springbok: Antidorcas marsupialis (Zimmermann, 1790). Ecology and physiology. Behaviour.]" Transvaal Museum Monographs 10.1 (1996).</ref>

[[Gestation]] lasts five to six months, after which a single calf (or rarely twins) is born.<ref name=Skinner1996/> Most births take place in the spring (October to November), prior to the onset of the rainy season.<ref name=kingdon/> The infant weighs {{cvt|3.8|to|5|kg}}. The female keeps her calf hidden in cover while she is away. Mother and calf rejoin the herd about three to four weeks after parturition; the young are weaned at five or six months. When the mother gives birth again, the previous offspring, now 6 to 12 months old, deserts her to join herds of adult springbok. Thus, a female can calve twice a year, and even thrice if one calf dies.<ref name=Bigalke1972/><ref name=Bigalke1970/> Springbok live for up to 10 years in the wild.<ref name=Cain2004/>

== Distribution and habitat ==
[[File:Etosha Pan Springbok (3406787513).jpg|thumb|Springboks on the [[Etosha Pan]]]]

Springbok inhabit the dry areas of south and southwestern Africa. Their range extends from northwestern South Africa through the Kalahari Desert into [[Namibia]] and Botswana. The [[South African Republic|Transvaal]] marks the eastern limit of the range, from where it extends westward to the [[Atlantic]] and northward to southern Angola and Botswana. In Botswana, they mostly occur in the Kalahari Desert in the southwestern and central parts of the country. They are widespread across Namibia and the vast grasslands of the Free State and the shrublands of Karoo in South Africa; however, they are confined to the Namib Desert in Angola.<ref name=estes>{{cite book|last1=Estes|first1=R.D.|author-link=Richard Despard Estes|title=The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals|url=https://archive.org/details/safaricompaniong00este_0|url-access=registration|date=1999|publisher=Chelsea Green Pub. Co.|location=White River Junction, US|isbn=978-0-907990-16-1|pages=[https://archive.org/details/safaricompaniong00este_0/page/65 65]–67|edition=Revised}}</ref>

The historic range of the springbok stretched across the dry grasslands, bushlands, and shrublands of south-western and southern Africa; springbok migrated sporadically in southern parts of the range. These migrations are rarely seen nowadays, but seasonal congregations can still be observed in preferred areas of short vegetation, such as the Kalahari Desert.<ref name=east/>

== Threats and conservation ==
The springbok has been classified as [[least concern]] on the [[IUCN Red List]]. No major threats to the long-term survival of the species are known.<ref name=iucn/> The springbok is one of the few antelope species with a positive population trend.<ref name=east>{{cite book|last1=East|first1=R.|last2=IUCN/SSC Antelope Specialist Group|title=African Antelope Database 1998|date=1999|publisher=The IUCN Species Survival Commission|location=Gland, Switzerland|isbn=978-2-8317-0477-7|pages=263–264}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Doyle| first=A. |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/environmentNews/idUSTRE52300U20090304?feedType=RSS&feedName=environmentNews |title=Quarter of antelopes under threat: report |work=[[Reuters]] |date=3 March 2009 |access-date=25 April 2012}}</ref>

Springbok occur in several protected areas across their range: [[Makgadikgadi and Nxai National Park]] (Botswana); [[Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park]] between Botswana and South Africa; Etosha National Park and [[Namib-Naukluft Park]] (Namibia); [[Mokala National Park|Mokala]] and [[Karoo National Park|Karoo]] National Parks and a number of provincial reserves in South Africa.<ref name=iucn>{{cite iucn|author=IUCN SSC Antelope Specialist Group|year=2008|url=https://www.iucnredlist.org/details/1676/0|title=''Antidorcas marsupialis''|access-date=7 January 2015}}</ref> In 1999, Rod East of the IUCN SSC Antelope Specialist Group estimated the springbok population in South Africa at more than 670,000, noting that it might be an underestimate. However, estimates for Namibia, Angola, Botswana, Transvaal, Karoo, and the Free State (which gave a total population estimate of nearly 2,000,000 – 2,500,000 animals in southern Africa), were in complete disagreement with East's estimate. Springbok are under active management in several private lands. Small populations have been introduced into private lands and provincial areas of [[KwaZulu-Natal]].<ref name =iucn/><ref name =east/>

== Relationship with humans ==
[[File:5 shilling George VI 1949.png|thumb|left|[[Silver coin]]: 5 shilling, 1949 – Springbok in the center, date above, value below]]
[[File:SouthAfrica-Stamp-1923-Springbok.jpg|thumb|Postage stamp, South Africa, 1923]]

Springbok are hunted as game throughout Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa because of their attractive coats; they are common hunting targets due to their large numbers and the ease with which they can be supported on farmlands. The export of springbok skins, mainly from Namibia and South Africa, is a booming industry; these skins serve as [[taxidermy]] models.<ref name=iucn/> The meat is a prized fare, and is readily available in South African supermarkets.<ref name=Todorov/> As of 2011, the springbok, the [[gemsbok]], and the [[greater kudu]] collectively account for around two-thirds of the game meat production from Namibian farmlands; nearly {{convert|90|t|LT+ST}} of the springbok meat is exported as [[mechanically deboned meat]] to overseas markets.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Magwedere|first1=K.|last2=Shilangale|first2=R.|last3=Mbulu|first3=R.S.|last4=Hemberger|first4=Y.|last5=Hoffman|first5=L.C.|last6=Dziva|first6=F.|title=Microbiological quality and potential public health risks of export meat from springbok (''Antidorcas marsupialis'') in Namibia|journal=Meat Science|date=2013|volume=93|issue=1|pages=73–78|doi=10.1016/j.meatsci.2012.08.007|pmid=22944735|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/230790321}} {{open access}}</ref>

The [[latissimus dorsi muscle]] of the springbok comprises 1.1–1.3% [[Ash (analytical chemistry)|ash]], 1.3–3.5% [[fat]], 72–75% moisture and 18–22% [[protein]].<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Hoffman|first1=L.C.|last2=Kroucamp|first2=M.|last3=Manley|first3=M.|title=Meat Quality Characteristics of Springbok (''Antidorcas marsupialis''). 2: Chemical composition of springbok meat as influenced by age, gender and production region|journal=Meat Science|date=2007|volume=76|issue=4|pages=762–767|doi=10.1016/j.meatsci.2007.02.018|pmid=22061255|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/233728685}} {{open access}}</ref> [[Stearic acid]] is the main [[fatty acid]], accounting for 24–27% of the fatty acids. The [[cholesterol]] content varies from {{convert|54.5|to|59.0|mg|gr}} per {{convert|100|g|oz}} of meat.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Hoffman|first1=L.C.|last2=Kroucamp|first2=M.|last3=Manley|first3=M.|title=Meat quality characteristics of springbok (''Antidorcas marsupialis''). 3: Fatty acid composition as influenced by age, gender and production region|journal=Meat Science|date=2007|volume=76|issue=4|pages=768–773|doi=10.1016/j.meatsci.2007.02.019|pmid=22061256|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/51775744}} {{open access}}</ref> The [[pH]] of the meat increases if the springbok is under stress or cropping is done improperly; consequently, the quality deteriorates and the colour darkens.<ref name="Hoffman2007">{{cite journal|last1=Hoffman|first1=LC.|last2=Kroucamp|first2=M.|last3=Manley|first3=M.|title=Meat quality characteristics of springbok (''Antidorcas marsupialis''). 1: Physical meat attributes as influenced by age, gender and production region|journal=Meat Science|date=2007|volume=76|issue=4|pages=755–761|doi=10.1016/j.meatsci.2007.02.017|pmid=22061254|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/51775742}} {{open access}}</ref> The meat might be adversely affected if the animal is killed by shooting.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=von La Chevallerie|first1=M.|last2=van Zyl|first2=J.H.M.|title=Some effects of shooting on losses of meat and meat quality in springbok and impala|journal=South African Journal of Animal Science|date=1971|volume=1|issue=1|pages=113–116|url=http://www.sasas.co.za/sites/sasas.co.za/files/vonLaChevallerie%28C%291of1971_0.PDF|access-date=19 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160806005116/http://www.sasas.co.za/sites/sasas.co.za/files/vonLaChevallerie%28C%291of1971_0.PDF|archive-date=6 August 2016|url-status=dead}} {{open access}}</ref> The meat may be consumed raw or used in prepared dishes. [[Biltong]] can be prepared by preserving the raw meat with vinegar, spices, and table salt, without [[fermentation]], followed by drying. Springbok meat may also be used in preparing [[salami]]; a study found that the flavour of this salami is better than mutton salami, and feels oilier than salami of beef, horse meat, or mutton.<ref name=Todorov>{{cite journal|last1=Todorov|first1=S.D.|last2=Koep|first2=K.S.C.|last3=Van Reenen|first3=C.A.|last4=Hoffman|first4=L.C.|last5=Slinde|first5=E.|last6=Dicks|first6=L.M.T.|title=Production of salami from beef, horse, mutton, Blesbok (''Damaliscus dorcas phillipsi'') and Springbok (''Antidorcas marsupialis'') with bacteriocinogenic strains of ''Lactobacillus plantarum'' and ''Lactobacillus curvatus''|journal=Meat Science|date=2007|volume=77|issue=3|pages=405–412|doi=10.1016/j.meatsci.2007.04.007|pmid=22061794|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/51781746}} {{open access}}</ref>

The springbok has been a [[national symbol of South Africa]] since the [[History of South Africa#Apartheid era (1948–1994)|white minority rule in the 20th century]]. It was adopted as a nickname or [[mascot]] by several South African sports teams, most famously by the [[Springbok Rugby Team|national rugby union team]]. Also, the winged springbok served as the logo of [[South African Airways]] from 1934 to 1997. The springbok is the national animal of South Africa. Even after the decline of apartheid, [[Nelson Mandela]] intervened to keep the name of the animal for the reconciliation of rugby fans, the majority of whom were whites.<ref name=ritter>{{cite book|last1=Ritter|first1=C.R.|title=South Africa|url=https://archive.org/details/southafrica0000ritt|url-access=registration|date=2012|publisher=ABDO Publishing Company|location=Minnesota|isbn=978-1-61783-118-8|page=[https://archive.org/details/southafrica0000ritt/page/32 32]}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Evans|first1=M.J.|title=Broadcasting the End of Apartheid: Live Television and the Birth of the New South Africa|date=2014|publisher=[[I.B. Tauris]]|location=New York|isbn=978-0-85773-583-6|page=206}}</ref> The springbok is featured on the reverse of the South African [[Krugerrand]] coin.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Weston |first1=R. |title=Gold: A World Survey |date=1983 |publisher=Routledge |location=Abingdon |isbn=978-0-203-09758-8 |page=68 |url={{Google books|id=0fRD2QGwcJgC|page=68|plainurl=yes}}}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=New release silver and limited mintage gold coins from APMEX |url=https://coinweek.com/dealers-companies/apmex/new-release-silver-and-limited-mintage-gold-coins-from-apmex/ |website=[[CoinWeek]] |date=13 December 2019 |access-date=25 May 2020 |archive-date=26 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026104634/https://coinweek.com/dealers-companies/apmex/new-release-silver-and-limited-mintage-gold-coins-from-apmex/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The cap badge of [[The Royal Canadian Dragoons]] has featured a springbok since 1913, a reference to the unit's involvement in the [[Second Boer War]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Boer War |url=http://www.dragoons.ca/boerwar.html |website=Dragoons.ca |publisher=[[The Royal Canadian Dragoons]] |access-date=25 May 2020 |archive-date=5 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211005002117/http://www.dragoons.ca/boerwar.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>

== References ==
{{Reflist|30em}}

== External links ==
{{Portal|Africa|Mammals|Animals}}
* {{Commons category-inline|Antidorcas marsupialis}}
* {{Wikisource-inline|list=
** {{Cite NSRW|wstitle=Springbok|short=x|noicon=x}}
** {{Cite EB1911|wstitle=Springbuck|short=x|noicon=x}}
** {{Cite NIE|wstitle=Springbok|short=x|noicon=x}}
** {{Cite AmCyc|wstitle=Springbok|short=x|noicon=x}}
}}
* {{Wikispecies-inline|Antidorcas marsupialis}}
* {{Wiktionary-inline|springbok}}
* {{ITIS|taxon=''Antidorcas marsupialis''|id=625085|access-date=9 April 2016}}

{{Artiodactyla|R.5}}
{{Taxonbar|from=Q213084}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Antilopini]]
[[Category:Antelopes of Sub-Saharan Africa]]
[[Category:Extant Pleistocene first appearances]]
[[Category:Mammals described in 1780]]
[[Category:Mammals of Southern Africa]]
[[Category:National symbols of South Africa]]
[[Category:Taxa named by Eberhard August Wilhelm von Zimmermann]]