Southern Duiker

Southern duikers are native to the southern regions of Africa, particularly found in countries like South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana. They inhabit a range of environments, including forests, woodlands, and savannas, where they can find cover and vegetation to feed on. Southern duikers are small antelopes, standing about 20-26 inches at the shoulder and weighing around 25-40 pounds. They have a reddish-brown or grayish-brown coat, which may appear darker or lighter depending on lighting conditions. Both males and females have short, straight horns on their heads. Their compact size and camouflage help them blend into their surroundings and stay hidden from predators. Their keen senses of smell and hearing aid in detecting danger and locating food.

Duikers are herbivores with a varied diet. They consume leaves, fruits, flowers, and other plant materials available in their habitat.

Female southern duikers give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of around 6-7 months. The calf is born well-developed and can follow its mother shortly after birth. Southern duikers are primarily active during the day and may also be active at dawn and dusk. They are typically solitary animals, although they may form small family groups. When alarmed, they freeze or flee quickly to escape danger.

Southern duikers are not considered endangered. However, habitat destruction due to deforestation and human activities can impact their populations. Conservation efforts focus on safeguarding their habitats and maintaining their presence in various ecosystems.