Dave Taylor's African Safari: Trophic Level II - The Herbivores - Common Duiker

Dave Taylor's African Safari: Trophic Level II - The Herbivores - Common Duiker - Page 24

Trophic Level II - The Herbivores
Common Duiker
Page 24

Sylvicapra grimmia

Length: 90-115 cm (35-45")

Height: 45-70 cm (18-27.5")

Tail: 7-19 cm (3-7")

Weight: 12-25.5 kg (26-56 lb.)

Status: Common

Habitat: The common duiker is found in almost every habitat except the rainforest and the desert. In the Serengeti-Mara, it is found in the woodland, riverine forest, the treed savanna and on kopjes. It is not found on the open plains.

Food: Duikers eat a variety of plant material. This includes herbs, fruits and seeds. It will also occasionally eat bark, insects, lizards, small rodents and birds.

Social System: Scientists have not yet determined whether the male of this species has one or more mates. It appears that both mating systems may occur. Successful males, who hold suitable territory, may breed with as many as five females. Less successful ones, with poorer territories, will have only one female.

Females breed year round and may produce a single calf twice a year after a five to six month gestation period. By the time they are six months old, the calf is as big as its parents. It is not clear when calves separate from their parents. Much research still needs to be done on this species.

Behavior: This small antelope is active during both the day and night. Females prefer denser cover than males. Males will stand on mounds or other high places in order to survey their territory.

Predators: ,include lions, wild dogs, leopards, spotted hyena, small cats, large eagles, and owls. Duiker will run and hide from a predator. They lie-out as soon as they think they are out of sight.

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