Cape hyrax

Procavia capensis

Cape hyraxes look very similar to marmots – but they are not closely related to them. The Cape hyrax’s closest relatives are, in fact, elephants, manatees and aardvarks.

Red List

Least Concern

Breeding programme

Much like the elephant, the Cape hyrax is only able to regulate its body temperature to a limited extent. On cool nights, its body temperature drops by up to four degrees Celsius. To return to normal levels during the day, the Cape hyrax deliberately basks in the sun – or seeks out the shade if it gets too hot.

Cape hyraxes live in colonies in rocky areas, where they move nimbly. To help their feet grip slippery rocks more effectively, they produce sweat on the soles of their feet. The middle toe of the Cape hyrax’s hind foot is clawed. All the other toes have flat, hoof-like nails. Cape hyraxes are therefore unable to dig for themselves. They must seek out rock crevices and other existing hiding places for shelter.

The young are born fully developed and begin eating grass at an early age; this forms the main part of their diet during the rainy season. During the dry season, their diet consists mainly of leaves. Juveniles often climb onto their mother’s back, where they enjoy the cosy warmth and absorb her body scent through her dorsal gland.