Common name: Palestine Mountain Gazelle
Scientific name: Gazella gazella
Family: Bovidae

Size:
Body length: 90–120 cm
Shoulder height: 55–80 cm
Weight: 15–30 kg

Identification:
A graceful, lightly built gazelle with long slender legs and a fine, alert posture. The coat is sandy to light brown with a clear contrast between the darker upperparts and white underparts. A distinct dark flank stripe runs along the sides. Both sexes have horns, though those of males are longer, thicker, and more curved, while females have shorter, straighter horns.

Habitat:
Rocky hills, open woodlands, shrublands, and semi-arid mountainous landscapes.

Status in Lebanon:
Historically present but now likely extinct. Once inhabited suitable mountainous habitats but disappeared due to hunting and habitat pressure.

Diet:
Herbivorous — feeds on grasses, leaves, shoots, and shrubs.

Behavior:
Diurnal and highly alert. Often seen in small groups or singly. Relies on speed and agility to escape predators. Can navigate rocky terrain with ease. Shows territorial behavior in males. Plays an important ecological role as a grazer.

Conservation status:
Endangered (IUCN Red List)