Rock Hyrax
Scientific name: Procavia capensis
Habitat: rocky outcrops
Diet: grasses, herbs, leaves, leaf buds, fruits and berries
Life span: 7 to 12 years
Young: 2 to 3 young
Size: 3-5 kg (6.5-11 lbs)
Rock hyraxes are distantly related to the elephant, dugong and manatee.
The large, soft foot pads are moistened by secretions, making them more adhesive to climb up steep rock faces.
They have 2 upper protruding front teeth that resemble an elephant's tusks and are used for defence. The 4 bottom teeth are used for grooming and cannot bite grass so the hyrax must turn its head sideways to graze.
They produce hyraceum (a mixture of urine and feces) that dries to a rock-like consistency, and is used for traditional medicines and in the making of perfume.
Learn more about this species:
These are some other websites that we think have more great information about this species.
Rock hyrax on Animal Diversity Web
For More Information
Edmonton Valley Zoo
13315 Buena Vista Road (87th Avenue)
PO Box 2359
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2R7
| attractions@edmonton.ca |
