Pronghorn vs. Gazelle — What's the Difference?

Socially, they form large herds that can include both genders.

A slender, agile antelope found in Africa and Asia.

Characterized by distinct white fur patches on its sides and throat.

Known for their distinctive coat patterns and light build.

A North American mammal noted for its exceptional speed and endurance.

They thrive in savannas and deserts.

Adapted primarily for open plains.

Renowned for their ability to make sharp turns while running.

Capable of migrating long distances.

Their social structure can be complex and variable.

The pronghorn (UK: , US: ) (Antilocapra americana) is a species of artiodactyl (even-toed, hoofed) mammal indigenous to interior western and central North America. Though not a true antelope, it is known colloquially in North America as the American antelope, prong buck, pronghorn antelope, prairie antelope, or simply antelope because it closely resembles the antelopes of the Old World and fills a similar ecological niche due to parallel evolution.

A deerlike North American mammal with a stocky body, long slim legs, and black horns that are shed and regrown annually.

A ruminant mammal (Antilocapra americana) of western North American plains that resembles an antelope, has forked horns that are shed and regrown annually, and is noted for its speed. Also called pronghorn antelope.

A North American mammal, Antilocapra americana, that resembles an antelope.

An American antelope (Antilocapra Americana), native of the plain near the Rocky Mountains. The upper parts are mostly yellowish brown; the under parts, the sides of the head and throat, and the buttocks, are white. The horny sheath of the horns is shed annually. Called also cabrée, cabut, prongbuck, and pronghorned antelope.

Fleet antelope-like ruminant of western North American plains with small branched horns

No, pronghorns are not true antelopes, although they are often mistakenly called so.

Gazelles are primarily preyed upon by cheetahs, lions, and hyenas.

Gazelles can reach speeds of about 50 miles per hour.

Pronghorns are native to the open plains of North America.

Gazelles generally do not undertake long migrations like pronghorns; their movements are usually more localized.

Pronghorns are generally larger and have unique white fur patches, unlike the varied and often striped or spotted coats of gazelles.

Pronghorn migrations help to shape the ecosystem by influencing plant distribution and providing prey for predators in different regions.

Pronghorns have evolved to have high endurance and speed to traverse large, open areas.

Both primarily graze on grasses and herbs, but their specific dietary choices can vary based on the vegetation available in their respective habitats.

Gazelles use their agility and the ability to make sudden sharp turns to evade predators, exploiting the terrain and vegetation for cover.

Gazelles are adapted to evade predators with agility and can survive in arid conditions by efficiently managing water and food intake.

Gazelles have seasonal breeding periods, often timed to ensure the availability of food for their offspring.

Gazelles serve as a key prey species and help maintain the health of grassland ecosystems through their grazing.

Pronghorns are not currently endangered, but they face threats from habitat fragmentation and barriers to migration.