The addax's wide, spreading hooves work like snowshoes on soft sand, stopping it from sinking. Its coat changes with the seasons — sandy brown in summer to reflect heat, and a darker grey-brown in winter to absorb warmth. This seasonal colour change is unusual among antelopes and shows just how finely tuned the addax is to its environment.
Addax live in small herds and wander enormous distances across the open desert following patches of rain and fresh plants. They seem to know when rain has fallen somewhere far away, perhaps by picking up smells carried on the wind, and they walk towards it even before any visible green shoots appear.
The addax's spiral horns are used in displays between males during the breeding season. Both males and females have horns, which also help them dig into the ground to reach moisture. Scientists and wildlife organisations track addax carefully because protecting even a small herd helps keep this remarkable desert animal alive for future generations.