Procapra gutturosa (Pallas, 1777)

Common Names

Procapra gutturosa, commonly called dzeren or Mongolian gazelle, has a seasonal coat: in summer, it is tawny light brown with pale pinkish tones, while in winter the coat becomes thicker, longer, and paler.

Rump Markings

This species has a distinctive heart-shaped white patch on its rump, split along the center by a darker median line.

Male Horn Structure

Males have lyre-shaped horns that curl backward from the forehead.

Locomotion Capabilities

The Mongolian gazelle is an extremely capable long-distance runner and a strong swimmer.

Ecosystem Type

Mongolian gazelles inhabit cold, semi-arid, temperate ecosystems.

Habitat Preferences

They favor flat or gently undulating steppes and dry grasslands, and prefer steppe and desert steppe habitats that have clustered vegetation.

Total Global Range

The species' estimated total global range is 746,281 km².

Range Distribution by Country

91% of this range lies within Mongolia (681,863 km²), 5% within China (34,718 km²), and 4% within Russia (29,700 km²).

Mating Season Timing

The species' mating season occurs in late autumn or winter.

Male Mating Season Trait

During this period, males experience goiter-like swelling of the throat.

Mate Competition Behavior

Competition for mates is intense, but fights between males rarely occur.

Gestation and Birth Timing

Gestation lasts approximately 5 to 6 months, and births take place in June and July.

Female Birthing Behavior

When giving birth, groups of dozens of females separate from the main herd before rejoining it after birthing is complete.

Litter Size

Females usually give birth to a single calf, and twins occur only occasionally.

Newborn Calf Traits

Newborn calves weigh around 3 kg, and can keep pace with their mother within a few days of birth.

Sexual Maturity Age

Young Mongolian gazelles reach sexual maturity and are able to mate at 17 to 18 months old.