The Gerenuk is an antelope often referred to as a giraffe-necked antelope or “giraffe gazelle.” They are the longest-necked members of the gazelle family.

They are unique-looking creatures due to their huge necks, small heads, and big eyes and ears. In short, they look like a gazelle had a baby with a llama.

Amazingly, they can survive their entire life without ever taking a drink of water. This is because the gerenuk derives water from the leaves that it eats.

To better reach this foliage, it has evolved a long, slender neck and head. It often stands tall on its hind legs and props its front legs against a tree trunk to reach high-growing plants.

Primarily found in the Horn of Africa and the drier parts of East Africa, the gerenuk is near threatened due to trophy hunters seeking their mount.