Carrying on with the “Savannah Summer”, we head to the Kalahari, the land of great thirst. The precipitation is low, so survival can be tricky. Even still, life finds a way, and even relatively large species can call the area home. Take the gemsbok or oryx (Oryx gazella), a large species of antelope, which is a native to this large, often dry expanse. They are large, and live in hears of up to forty members, but are adapted to need very little water, so can survive off their food. It is an exquisite animal, which I have reviewed an example before, and here is another, curtesy of Papo.
Compared to the Schleich example, this one has a darker pelt, which is very well done here, matching spot on to the actual animal. The whole model is very well sculpted, though the horns can be prone to bending if kept in tight conditions (i.e. bags and boxes among other figures).
This figure has a magnificent and very dynamic pose, striding forward, tail swishing, perhaps try to intimidate an opponent, or get ready to rut. It’s a fairly large figure, measuring 5.5″ long and 5″ from hoof to antler, one of the larger models of this species, though I feel this is fitting.
I adore this figure. Well sculpted, painted and with a brilliant pose. I feel this is superior to the Schleich model, possibly the best model of the species I have seen. It was made in 2012, so can still be easily found, even being able to pick it up in person from a shop. I got this one at Blairdrummond safari park in Scotland with my girlfriend, and am glad I did. Definitely worth getting.
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Superior? Yes and No…
I think it has a better sculpt and I like the posture, but notice the painting. It is missing the black maculae on the lower legs that is characteristic of this species.
I had this Papo version originally, but later replaced it with the Schleich model due to the paint job and thus overall appearance.