MY ISRAEL:
THE NUBIAN IBEX:
Adopted by the Israel & Parks Authority as its logo, the Nubian ibex is classified as a mountain goat. It is able to survive & flourish in hostile environments that include the Judean desert, the Negev highlands & Eilat mountains. Mentioned in 1 Samuel 24:3, Job 39:1 & Psalm 104:18, the Nubian ibex is endowed with numerous tools essential to their survival.
The divine hand is once again evident in their design. They are able to walk or run on an almost vertical surface. This due to their soft split cloven shaped hooves allowing them to grip a surface like a pincer. Ibex inhabit the steep mountainous slopes of their environment for protection against predators, which include leopards, wolves, foxes, eagles & bearded vultures. The slopes also enable them to lick the rocks in safety, which contain calcium, a requirement for the proper functioning of nerves & muscles. They exist on a diet of grasses & leaves & are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and sleep at night. They measure 65-75 cm to the shoulder & weigh approximately 70 kg. Males have long back curving horns which are 1 to 1.5 meters in length & females have smaller horns which are slightly backward curving & are of approximately 30 cm in length. They are able to jump to a height of 1.8 meters & their coats reflect sunlight thereby keeping them cool.
They have an average lifespan of 17 years & a gestation period of 5 months resulting in the birth of 1 to 3 babies called kids. Herds comprise of females, the young & males of up to 3 years of age. Males are solitary or form transitory bands of up to 8 individuals.
During the 6 to 8 week breeding season, males join female herds. In order to dominate a herd, males engage in duels, which due to the scarcity of water & hot environment are exhausting and can last up to an hour. Once a male has achieved dominance, the harem follows him and he need not engage in further duels & can concentrate on keeping fit & healthy.
Ron Traub (Tour Guide & Architect).
Website: rontraub-tours.com
Photo: Rimonah Traub.
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