Stories · Lebanon
Rock Hyrax (Procavia capensis)
- Procavia capensis
- Lebanon
- Lives in colonies
- Cousin of the elephant
- Needs protection
“We need protection in Lebanon. We are cute and harmless, but still threatened by overhunting and the destruction of our natural habitats.”In some areas people destroyed our forest to make charcoal for smoking! In other areas we are welcomed and protected, so there is still hope for us, and for you.
— The rock hyrax
On video
Watch the colony
Eating Alone · 0:10
Field guide
About the rock hyrax
Rock Hyraxes (Procavia capensis) are small, herbivorous mammals native to rocky habitats in Africa and the Middle East. Despite their rodent-like appearance, they are more closely related to elephants and manatees. Known for their rock-dwelling habits, they are adept climbers and can be found in rocky outcrops, cliffs, and boulders. Recognizable by their stocky build, round ears, and stumpy tail, rock hyraxes have dense fur that provides insulation against temperature extremes. Their diet consists mainly of leaves, fruits, and grasses. Social animals, they live in colonies led by a dominant male. Rock hyraxes communicate through a complex system of vocalizations, and their unique physiology, including specialized kidney adaptations, enables them to conserve water in arid environments.
