The beisa and gemsbok races of the species Oryx gazella inhabit eastern and southern Africa. Oryx live in herds on deserts and dry plains. They avoid exertion and direct sunlight. Oryx are capable of climbing mountains to reach water springs and salt licks.

Oryx carry a gestation period of 8.5 months. Females re-enter estrus cycle just a few weeks after calving. Oryx claving usually occurs within a period of several months. 

The oryx survives on tough dry grasses when green grass is not available for grazing. They drink regularly when water is available but can get by on foods like roots, bulbs, tubers. Oryx can endure extreme heat and maintain a low level of water loss from their body. 

The oryx feed at night and early in the morning when plants have the most moisture.

Oryx is known to grunt and snort while confronting an enemy. While browsing / grazing they sound mild moaning calls.

Oryx are stocky animals measuring between 100 to 125 cms tall at the shoulder. They have a mane and a tufted tail and have dark patches on the face and forehead, with a dark streak on either side of the eye. They also posses dark markings on the body and legs which vary amongst the species.

The coast is greyish brown in the besia and gemsbok, whitish in the scimitar-horned oryx. Horns are present in both sexes, are long, sharp-tipped and can be straight or curved.