The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 26, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Science & Nature›Mammals›Pronghorn
Science & Nature • Mammals

Pronghorn

The pronghorn (*Antilocapra americana*) is a hoofed mammal native to North America and the only living member of the family Antilocapridae.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) is a hoofed mammal native to North America and the only living member of the family Antilocapridae. It is known for its exceptional speed, long-distance migration, and distinctive branched horns in males and some females. Despite sometimes being called an antelope, it is not closely related to true antelopes.

Taxonomy and naming

Pronghorn are mammals in the order Artiodactyla and the family Antilocapridae. The scientific name is Antilocapra americana, and the animal is sometimes called American antelope, although it is not a true antelope.

Distribution and habitat

The species is native to western North America, with historical and current ranges extending through parts of Canada, the United States, and northern Mexico. It typically lives in open prairie, grassland, sagebrush, and desert habitats.

Behaviour and adaptations

Pronghorn are adapted for speed and endurance in open country, and they are famous for their migration ability. Males have branching horns, and unlike true antlers, these horn sheaths are shed annually.

Conservation

The pronghorn is listed as Least Concern globally. Population estimates vary by source, but the species remains widespread, though some local and subspecies populations face habitat-related pressures.

Key facts

  • Pronghorn are endemic to North America and are found nowhere else in the wild.
  • They are the only surviving member of the family Antilocapridae.
  • Pronghorn are often called antelope, but they are not closely related to African antelope.
  • They are the fastest land animal in North America and can reach speeds of about 55–60 mph.
  • Pronghorn are known for long seasonal migrations in parts of their range.
🍁
Canadian context

Pronghorn occur in southern parts of the Canadian Prairies, making them a notable native mammal for Canadian readers in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and neighbouring regions.

Frequently asked questions

What is a pronghorn?
A pronghorn is a North American hoofed mammal, scientifically named Antilocapra americana, and the only living member of the family Antilocapridae.
Is a pronghorn an antelope?
No. It is sometimes called an antelope, but it is not closely related to true antelopes.
Where do pronghorn live?
Pronghorn live in western North America, especially open prairie, grassland, sagebrush, and desert habitats.
How fast can pronghorn run?
They are the fastest land animal in North America and can reach about 55–60 mph.
Are pronghorn endangered?
No. The species is generally listed as Least Concern, though some local populations face habitat pressures.

References

  1. National Wildlife Federation — https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Mammals/Pronghorn
    Supports: Native range in North America, fastest land animal in North America, relation to goats and antelope
  2. National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/pronghorn
    Supports: Common name, scientific name, mammal classification, conservation status
  3. National Park Service — https://www.nps.gov/wica/learn/nature/pronghorn.htm
    Supports: North American range, only surviving member of Antilocapridae, not closely related to antelope
  4. Zoo Idaho — https://zooidaho.org/animals/fact-sheets/pronghorn/
    Supports: Taxonomy, endemic range, habitat types, family and species classification
  5. Canadian Geographic — https://canadiangeographic.ca/articles/animal-facts-pronghorn/
    Supports: Canadian relevance, common name, scientific name, type