Nature
2020.02.23 09:19 GMT+8

Gazelle poses like a praying mantis

Updated 2020.02.23 09:19 GMT+8
CGTN

A bizarre moment was captured in Samburu National Reserve in Kenya: a weird-looking gazelle standing on hind legs and stretching its elongated neck to reach the leaves. The slender animal uses its front legs to lean against the bush for balance, almost posing like a praying mantis. From every angle, it looks just like an ordinary gazelle, except that its neck and limbs are super long. 

This is actually a giraffe gazelle. Professional photographer Mogens Trolle pictured the strange animal, otherwise known as a gerenuk. Its ability to stand 6 feet tall like this allows it to feed on fresh leaves and buds too high up for other antelopes. Once the male has finished feeding, it adopts a human-like stance whilst standing unsupported on its hind legs, 'arms' raised. 

(All pictures via VCG)

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