Antelope are easily the fastest animals in Montana. They have been clocked at speeds up to 70 miles per hour (which means they would be breaking the speed limit on many Montana highways), and they can easily cruise at 30 miles per hour for extended periods. In the open prairie where antelope make their homes, they need the speed to elude predators.

Male antelope, or bucks, have horns about a foot long, with prongs that curve at the tips. Mature females, or does, have horns as well. However, their horns are much smaller and average about two inches long. The fork in antelope horns is characteristic of antlers, and this is what part of makes antelope unique. It's the only animal to have branched horns, which is how it gets the name "Pronghorn Antelope." Another unique aspect of antelope: the shed their horn sheaths each year, and are the only horned animal to do so. How about another interesting tidbit? Believe it or not, the antelope's closest genetic cousin is in Africa. Genetically, antelope are more similar to Thompson's Gazelles than they are to any ungulate in North America.

Bucks are usually larger, weighing around 125 pounds; does weigh around 100. The bucks are fairly territorial in the spring, summer and fall, but join the herd to forage in winter. Herds may roam many miles in search of food.

Area of Distribution   Unpopulated Area