Klipspringer
Regenstein African Journey
Did You Know?
- There are 11 subspecies of klipspringer. In some, both males and females have horns, while in others, only males have them.
- Klipspringers have scent glands in front of their eyes that secrete a gooey, tar-like substance that they rub on branches to mark territory.
- Klipspringer hooves are well adapted for climbing. The last joint is rotated so these mammals walk on the tips of their hooves. With the diameter of a dime and a slight suction-cup effect, klipspringers have excellent traction that makes them skilled climbers.
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Overview
Scientific Name: Oreotragus oreotragus
Class: Mammals
Diet: Fruit and flowers (also, leaves and lichen)
Range: Sub-Saharan Africa
Endangered Status: Least Concern
More Information
Klipspringers are a small species of antelope, standing just 20 inches tall and weighing between 22–40 pounds. They have hollow, brittle hairs that are gray, brown, yellow, or olive green and help insulate from heat. They often rest during the hottest parts of the day and spend their time climbing and foraging in the early morning and late afternoon. These little antelopes can stand extremely still for long periods, likely watching for predators. If they spot one, they communicate through whistles. Their arid habitats may be as high as 13,000 feet in elevation.
They are generally solitary, sometimes forming monogamous groups that include offspring. Breeding behaviors depend on region and subspecies. Some male klipspringers do have specific mating behaviors, such as arching their neck to show dominance. Females give birth to one offspring after a six-month gestation period. Their young remain hidden for the first two or three months of life. Populations are relatively stable, with 25 percent of their range falling into protected areas.
