COMMON DUIKER

Sylvicapra grimmia

SHOULDER HEIGHT : 60 cm

MASS : 12-16 kg

GESTATION : 210 days

This is a common species found throughout southern Africa. Mainly nocturnal, although often seen in daylight, this elusive, shy animal keeps to thick bush during the heat of the day. It is found singly or in pairs. The largest of our three duikers, it is independent of water. The name ‘duiker’ is derived from the Afrikaans word meaning diver, and describes the characteristic diving action of the animal when fleeing.

Diet – Mainly a browser, the common duiker includes fruits, grass and roots in its diet. This species is fond of feeding in cultivated land.

Spoor – Narrow, pointed track; 3,5cm long.