Rock Hyrax
Procavia capensis
Rock Hyrax is a small herbivore living among African rocky hills and cliffs.
| Scientific name | Procavia capensis |
|---|---|
| Swahili name | Kudu wa mwamba |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
| Class | Mammalia |
| Order | Artiodactyla |
| Family | Procaviidae |
| Size | Male: 2.5-4.5 kg; Female: 2.5-4.5 kg |
How to identify
Body shape resembles a rabbit but more rounded and stocky; short, stout limbs; gray-brown fur with a darker back; very short tail; thick pads on the soles of the feet adapted for climbing rocks
Habitat
Rocky dry or semi-arid areas such as rocky slopes, canyons, rock crevices, and edges of bushes
Diet
Primarily herbivorous, feeding on various herbaceous plants, leaves, bark, and shrub branches
When it is active
Diurnal, active during the day, especially in early morning and late afternoon
Where it lives
Mainly distributed in southern and eastern Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Namibia; commonly found in Kenya’s Maasai Mara region
How to spot it
Search in rocky areas, carefully observe rock crevices and slopes; easier to spot during good light in morning or evening
Photography tips
Use natural light to capture climbing behavior and group interactions; choose rocky backgrounds to highlight habitat features
Threats
Minimal impact from habitat destruction and human activities; may be locally affected by hunting
Similar species
Other species of the genus Procavia, distinguished by body size and distribution range; clearly different from other Lagomorpha order animals
