 Cape Grysbok (Raphicerus melanotis)
Description. The Cape Grysbok has a
thickset body, and fragile, short legs. The forelegs are a little
shorter than the hind legs, causing its back to slope. Males have
straight, needle-like horns.
Size. These animals are rather
stocky, measuring 45 to 55 cm at the shoulder, and weighing between 8
and 23 kg.
Habitat. Cape grysboks prefer open
grassy plains for foraging and thick areas of bush for hiding during
the day.
Behavior. The Cape grysbok is a
secretive and solitary animal, which is partial to the shoots and
leaves of vines, and steals out under cover of darkness to feast on
this rich food. Cape grysboks are
generally nocturnal, becoming active late in the afternoon. . Males are
territorial, and mark their territories with dung heaps, scent marks,
and urine. Pairs may associate and defend territories together. They
have very sharp hearing, which helps them remain elusive. They seem to
adapt well to the presence of humans, but prefer to inhabit areas with
little human development.
Diet. They are predominantly
browsers. They consume grasses,
fruits, and bush and tree foliage. These antelope are reportedly able
to survive long periods without water.
Predators. Because of their small
size, grysboks fall prey to many animals. They are hunted by leopards,
jackals, eagles, and pythons.
Reproduction. A single lamb is born,
usually in spring. The lamb is born with a darker coat than its parents
and is kept hidden for the first few months until it can fend for
itself.
On
Wildcliff.
Seen
grazing in the meadows.
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