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Common Duiker

Meet the Common duiker, a tiny antelope that loves to hide in Africa's tall grasses!

Images

Common Duiker: Sylvicapra grimmia

Common Duiker: Sylvicapra grimmia

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Common Duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia)
Ethiopian Common Duiker, Bale
Common Duiker, Sylvicapra grimmia - just before the light was gone
Common Duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia)
Common Duiker: Sylvicapra grimmia
Common Duiker: Sylvicapra grimmia
Common Duiker
Common Duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia) young male ...
Common Duiker: Sylvicapra grimmia
Common Duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia) female ...
Common Duiker: Sylvicapra grimmia

Key Facts

Scientific Name
Sylvicapra grimmia.
Habitat
Savannahs and hilly areas in Africa, south of the Sahara Desert.
Diet
Herbivore and Omnivore - eats leaves, fruits, flowers, insects, and small animals.
Size
Stands about 15-25 inches tall at the shoulder, weighing 20-60 pounds. About as tall as a kindergartener.
Lifespan
About 10 years in the wild.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (population is stable).
Fun Fact
The name 'duiker' comes from the Afrikaans word for 'diver', because they dive into bushes to hide!

Who's That Hiding?

Imagine a super shy animal that's about the size of a small dog! That's the Common duiker. It has big eyes and pointy ears, perfect for spotting danger. When it gets scared, it can leap away super fast, like a little bouncing ball. They are so good at hiding, you might walk right past one without even knowing!

Where Do They Play?

These little antelopes live all over Africa, south of a big desert called the Sahara. They love places with lots of bushes and tall grass, like grassy fields and rocky hills. Sometimes, they even live near people's homes if there are enough hiding spots. They need these places to feel safe and find yummy snacks.

What's for Dinner?

Common duikers are not picky eaters! They love to munch on leaves, fruits, and flowers they find on the ground. They are like little forest chefs, tasting all sorts of plants. They also sometimes eat bugs and small creatures, making them a bit of an all-you-can-eat buffet explorer!

A Duiker's Day

These duikers are usually shy and like to be alone or with just one other duiker. They are most active when it's cooler, like in the early morning or late evening. They have special horns that are short and spiky, which they use to protect themselves. They are truly masters of staying hidden and safe.

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