Where does the Kirk's dik-dik live?
Kirk's dik-dik is a small antelope native to Eastern and Southern Africa. It is endemic to the savannah areas of eastern and south-western Africa, and prefers covered, dry habitats. Its distribution is discontinuous, so it often occurs in dispersed patches. It is believed to have six subspecies. It lives in monogamous pairs that may remain together for life if undisturbed.
What does the Kirk's dik-dik eat?
It is a herbivore: it eats foliage, fruits, shoots and berries, selecting nutrient-rich, low-fibre plants. It does not need to drink, since it gets its moisture from vegetation. It marks territory with dung, urine and preorbital gland secretions on nearby twigs. It can reach speeds up to 42 km/h.
Is the Kirk's dik-dik endangered?
No: the IUCN lists it as Least Concern. It has many predators: jackals, caracals, leopards, hyenas, cheetahs, wild dogs, lions, pythons and crocodiles. It stands 35 to 45 cm tall and weighs 3.8 to 7.2 kg. Its lifespan in the wild is typically 5 years, but may surpass 10.
