The black-tailed gazelle is a graceful and distinctive species of gazelle native to North Africa. As the name suggests, the black-tailed gazelle is recognized by its unique long, dark, and sweeping black tail, which stands out against its light-colored body. It has a sleek and slender build, with a white or cream-colored coat adorned with reddish-brown patches on the sides. Adult black-tailed gazelles typically stand about 2 to 2.5 feet tall at the shoulder. Their body length, excluding the tail, ranges from 3.5 to 4.5 feet. Males and females are similar in size, with males having slightly larger horns.

These gazelles inhabit arid and semi-arid regions, including the Sahara Desert, Sahel, and other parts of North Africa. They are well-adapted to hot and dry climates and can endure long periods without water.

Black-tailed gazelles are social animals and form herds consisting of several individuals. Within these herds, they exhibit a hierarchical structure with dominant males leading and defending their territory. Their primary diet consists of various grasses, leaves, and shrubs found in their arid habitats. They have specialized digestive systems that allow them to extract as much moisture as possible from their food, aiding in water conservation.

Breeding season for black-tailed gazelles typically occurs during the cooler months to avoid the extreme heat. After a gestation period of around six months, a female gives birth to a single calf, which is well-developed and can stand and walk shortly after birth.

Unfortunately, the black-tailed gazelle faces several threats to its survival. These include habitat loss due to human activities, hunting for their meat and horns, and competition with livestock for resources. It is classified as "Critically Endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Conservation efforts and breeding programs are underway to try and protect and increase the population of this beautiful and endangered species.