Jordan

What is the National Animal of Jordan?

jordan national animal

National Animal Jordan – Oryx

The Arabian Oryx is the National Animal of Jordan. The Oryx is one of the most beautiful animals on earth. The Arabian oryx comes from desert areas of Iran, Iraq, Israel, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) is the national animal of Jordan. It is also known as the White Oryx in English. It is known for its unique horn, which is present in both male and female species.

The Arabian Oryx is considered as one of the smartest animals in the world. It has been a symbol of wisdom, beauty, and speed since ancient times.

It is known for its bravery and loyalty to others of its species. Today, the endangered species are protected in special reserves in Saudi Arabia, Oman and Israel.

What eats Oryx ?

Oryx are herbivores (plant-eaters). They eat mainly grasses, leaves, shoots and roots; however, they can survive without drinking water for extended periods of time because they get enough.

Physical Characteristics of Arabian Oryx

Arabian oryx is a medium-sized antelope with a long, straight and spiralling horns. The horns curve back along the head, sometimes with a small twist near the end. The horns are used in fighting and for digging for water.

Read Also: National animal of Bahrain

Arabian Oryx has long legs, a narrow body and a long neck. The head-to-body length averages about 1.6 m (5 ft 3 in), and it stands about 1 m (3 ft) at the shoulder. Both sexes have long straight or slightly curved, ringed horns. Horns are 45 to 75 cm (18 to 30 in) long in males, and 25 to 40 cm (10 to 16 in) in females. Males weigh 90 to 110 kg (200 to 240 lb), while females weigh 60 to 80 kg (130 to 180 lb).

Scientific Classification of Arabian Oryx

Scientific Name Kingdom Class Order Family
Oryx gazella Animalia Mammalia Artiodactyla Bovidae
Population Size Life Span Weight Height Length
1000 15 YRS 220-300 KG 100 CM 180 CM

Oryx Facts – The national animal of Jordan

  • Oryx is the official & national animal of Jordan.
  • It is the world’s largest antelope.
  •  It has long, straight horns.
  • It is a fast animal. It can run up to 60 km/h.
  •  It is a very shy animal. It usually runs away from humans.
  •  It is a social animal.
  •  It lives in the desert.
  •  It is very precious and it is now a protected animal
  • Current population is estimated around 3000.

Why is Arabian Oryx the national animal of Jordan?

Arabian oryx is a protected animal, and it has been the emblem of Jordan and considered to be the National Animal of Jordan. This is because of the various reasons that are mentioned below.

It is very rare and endangered species, which was under threat of extinction in 1972.

It is one of the most intelligent species among all the antelopes.

This animal shows extreme tolerance to high temperatures and can live without water for weeks. It can also drink water while standing on its legs.

Oryx are mostly found in Oman and the United Arab Emirates. However, they have been reintroduced to other areas, including Israel and Saudi Arabia.

The Arabian oryx is the famous and native animal to Jordan and is featured on the coat of arms.

The Oryx is a unique animal that is native to the Jordan & Arabian desert. The Oryx is also a symbol of the United Arab Emirates, as well as its national animal. No other animal symbolizes this country or its people as well as the Oryx. This animal is an important part of their culture and history. So, due to all the mentioned facts the government of Qatar officially announced Oryx as the national animal of Jordan.