Kirk's Dik-dik
Madoqua kirkii
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Artiodactyla · Bovidae
About
Kirk's dik-dik is a species of small dik-dik antelope native to Eastern and Southern Africa. It is believed to have six subspecies and possibly a seventh existing in southwest Africa. Dik-diks are herbivores, typically of a fawn color that aids in camouflaging themselves in savannah habitats. According to MacDonald (1985), they are also capable of reaching speeds up to 42 km/hour. The lifespan of Kirk's dik-dik in the wild is typically 5 years, but may surpass 10 years. In captivity, males have been known to live up to 16.5 years, while females have lived up to 18.4 years.
Fun Fact
Kirk's dik-diks mate for life and mark their territory by depositing tears from large preorbital glands onto grass stems — they literally cry to establish boundaries.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Dry bush and scrublands
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
5-10 years
Threats
- Invasive Species
- Overgrazing