How does the body shape of a duiker help it move through dense undergrowth?

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An American bison, or plains buffalo (Bison bison), stands in tall yellow grass with open plains in the background. — bovid American bison, or plains buffalo (*Bison bison*).

The duiker (a member of the bovid family) is physically adapted to navigate dense forest environments through its compact, short-necked body shape.1

Key features that facilitate movement through undergrowth include:

Body Proportions: Duikers possess a compact frame with hindquarters that are more developed and higher than their forequarters, which helps them maneuver through vegetation.1
Sturdy Limbs: They have sturdy, short legs that allow them to move stealthily, often lifting each leg high to avoid obstacles.1
Size Selection: The structure of forest undergrowth appears to select for specific shoulder heights, enabling these mammals to move through or beneath dense vegetation with minimal interference.1

These adaptations, combined with their ability to "freeze" in mid-stride, allow them to effectively utilize closed habitats for concealment and foraging.1