Gemsbok , common name for the largest and best known of the three species of oryx, or straight-horned antelope. Herds of ten or more gemsbok are still seen in southwestern Africa, their sandy-gray flanks nearly invisible against the desert and brushland habitat. Both sexes have sharply pointed horns that extend up to about 1.5 m (about 4.9 ft). The gemsbok stands up to 140 cm (up to 55 in) high at the shoulder and has a horselike posture and gallop. The horns are lowered parallel to the ground and the animals lunge with great accuracy when holding off lions and other predators. They are also swift runners that can outpace a horse or a pack of African hunting dogs. Gemsbok can survive dry seasons by eating melons and plant bulbs. Their long horns and striking facial markings have made them prized hunting trophies .