Found only in the northern and central parts of Namibia, Dik-Diks are extremely tiny, shy, secretive animals. They browse on leaves, shoots, buds and flowers during the morning and late afternoon and prefer rocky areas with sparse grasses. The Dik Dik is Africa's smallest antelope, reaching a shoulder height of around 40cm (15.7in) and a mass of 5Kg (11lb). They are a rare and protected species. Although they are regularly seen alone, they mate for long periods, probably for life. A characteristic feature of the Damara Dik-Dik, is an elongated, mobile, proboscis-like nose, which can be moved in any direction. It also has conspicuous preorbital glands on the sides of the muzzle, which they use to mark their territory, leaving a black, tarry secretion on a clump of grass. Their hoofed feet have well-developed, black rubbery pads that act as shock absorbers on the hard, stony ground. Only the males have short, spiky horns.

© 2011 All Rights Reserved

Found only in the northern and central parts of Namibia, Dik-Diks are extremely tiny, shy, secretive animals. They browse on leaves, shoots, buds and flowers during the morning and late afternoon and prefer rocky areas with sparse grasses. The Dik Dik is Africa's smallest antelope, reaching a shoulder height of around 40cm (15.7in) and a mass of 5Kg (11lb). They are a rare and protected species. Although they are regularly seen alone, they mate for long periods, probably for life. A characteristic feature of the Damara Dik-Dik, is an elongated, mobile, proboscis-like nose, which can be moved in any direction. It also has conspicuous preorbital glands on the sides of the muzzle, which they use to mark their territory, leaving a black, tarry secretion on a clump of grass. Their hoofed feet have well-developed, black rubbery pads that act as shock absorbers on the hard, stony ground. Only the males have short, spiky horns.

© 2011 All Rights Reserved