Nubian Ibex - Yemen


Socotra Island lies 380 kilometers off the coast of the Arabian Peninsula. The long separation from the Arabian mainland has helped in creating a distinctive flora and fauna endemic to the remote island. Hawaii, New Caledonia, and the Galápagos Islands share this similar trait in harboring species found nowhere else.

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Capra nubiana - The Nubian ibex is a sure-footed animal and is usually found in steep desert mountain regions. Most desert animals adapt themselves to arid regions; some are able to go without direct access to water, but the ibex needs to drink on a daily basis and tends to stay near reliable sources of water. Herds are small and separated by sex; males will stay in their maternal herd until reaching sexual maturity, about 3 years. The ibex feeds primarily on shrubs, leaves, buds, fruits, and occasionally grass when available.