Gazelles are an essential part of the African savannah ecosystem, and their unique physical characteristics as well as living habits are some of the most recognizable aspects of these graceful creatures. Gazelles are known for their long, slender legs and agility, which enables them to reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour when chased by a predator. Moreover, gazelles are clever and resourceful creatures; their herding behavior enables them to rest and graze during the day, but then quickly flee the area in the face of danger. The various species of gazelle can vary in size, weight, and color, depending on their habitat. The smallest gazelle is the Dorcas gazelle, which weighs less than 18 pounds and stands at around 16-26 inches in height. The largest species is the East Africa's Gerenuk, which can weigh up to 140 pounds and stands at 31-45 inches tall. The coat of the gazelle will usually be a mixture of fawn, yellow, white and brown hues, acting as camouflage against the wide open African landscape. In addition to the physical characteristics of gazelles, the animals also have a meaningful place in African culture. In many of the countries where gazelles thrive, local tribes have reverence for the creatures, and depict them in art or hold them in high esteem due to their grace and speed. As such, gazelles are an important part of the natural African environment, both for their practical value in sustaining the Savanna ecosystem, and for their symbolic value in African culture.