Rock Hyrax

Procavia capensis

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Hyracoidea · Procaviidae

About

The rock hyrax, also called dassie, Cape hyrax, rock rabbit, or coney, is a medium-sized terrestrial mammal native to Africa and the Middle East. Commonly referred to in South Africa as the dassie, it is one of the five living species of the order Hyracoidea, and the only one in the genus Procavia. Rock hyraxes weigh 4–5 kg (8.8–11.0 lb) and have short ears.

Fun Fact

Rock hyraxes look like guinea pigs but are actually the closest living relatives of elephants — their toenails, teeth, and brain structure share surprising similarities with their enormous cousins.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Rocky outcrops and kopjes

Diet

Herbivore

Lifespan

10-12 years

Threats

Disease
Habitat Loss

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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