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ROCK HYRAX

The rock hyrax (Procavia capensis), also known as the dassie, is a small, thickset mammal native to Africa and the Middle East. Despite its rodent-like appearance, the rock hyrax is surprisingly more closely related to elephants and manatees, sharing a common ancestor from millions of years ago. Rock hyraxes have a stocky body, short legs, and small ears, with a rubbery pad on their feet for gripping rocky surfaces. They are covered in dense fur, ranging from gray to brown, and have a distinctive dorsal gland on their back, which is used for communication and territorial marking. These social animals live in colonies of up to 50 individuals, often inhabiting rocky outcrops, cliffs, and boulders, which provide shelter and protection from predators. They are diurnal (active during the day) and spend much of their time basking in the sun, grooming, or foraging for food. Their diet consists mainly of grasses, leaves, fruits, and bark. Rock hyraxes are known for their loud, distinctive calls, which include warning signals and songs used to establish territory. They have a unique social structure, with a dominant male leading the group and multiple females and their offspring. Despite their small size, rock hyraxes are well-adapted to their rocky habitats and have few natural predators, though they are occasionally preyed upon by eagles, leopards, and snakes. They are not currently considered threatened, but habitat destruction and human encroachment can impact local populations. Their unique evolutionary history and ecological role make them a fascinating species in the animal kingdom. The rock hyrax is one of MKWC's ambassadors, helping to educate visitors about wildlife conservation. This particular hyrax was rescued after being trapped and injured. While rock hyraxes are often seen as a nuisance due to their tendency to make a lot of noise at night, they are fascinating creatures that love living near human homes, often on rooftops. Unfortunately, this behavior makes them unwelcome among farmers, who sometimes resort to trapping or harming them. #RockHyrax