Dik-dik

tiny antelope · Africa · bushland

Impossibly tiny. Dik-diks are among the smallest antelopes in the world, weighing only 0.7 to 1.6 kilograms (about 1.5 to 3.5 pounds). They stand just 12 to 16 inches tall, making them smaller than many house cats.

African home. All four species of dik-dik live in the bushlands of eastern and southern Africa, where they hide among shrubs and thorny plants. These dense bushes keep them safe from predators.

Funny name, real sound. The name 'dik-dik' comes from the alarm call they make when scared, which sounds like a rapid 'dik-dik-dik' repeated over and over. Other animals in the area recognize this warning sound and know danger is near.

Super smelly scent. Dik-diks mark their territory by leaving scent from special glands near their eyes and rear end. These scent marks tell other dik-diks 'this is my home, stay out.'

Loyal partners. Unlike most antelopes, dik-diks often live as bonded pairs that stay together for years. A male and female will defend their territory side by side.