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Rock Hyrax (Dassie) (Procavia capensis) in Kruger National Park

Photo: Naturedata · CC0 · source ↗

Mammals Oddities Uncommon

Rock Hyrax (Dassie)

Klipdas · Procavia capensis

A plump, furry little animal that looks a bit like a large guinea pig but lives among rocks and boulders. Rock hyraxes bask in the sun in groups and dart into crevices when alarmed. Despite their small size, their closest living relatives are elephants. They feed on grass and leaves and post sentries to whistle a warning when eagles or predators appear.

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How to identify it

A rabbit-sized, tail-less furry animal sunning on rocks; nothing else in Kruger looks quite like it.

Where to see it in Kruger

Lives among rocky outcrops and koppies; often seen sunbathing on boulders around Olifants camp and rocky hills.

Did you know

Amazingly, the tiny rock hyrax's closest living relative is the giant African elephant.

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