Kirk’s dik-dik

Kirk's dik-dik is one of four species of dwarf antelopes belonging to the genus Madoqua. These small antelopes are adapted to the arid regions of eastern Africa. Kirk's dik-dik, the most well-known species, is found in the acacia savannas of Kenya and Tanzania.1

Dik-diks are characterized by their small size, with Kirk's dik-dik standing about 14 to 18 inches tall and weighing between 8.4 to 15.8 pounds. They have a pointed snout, large eyes and ears, and long hind limbs. Their coat is typically grizzled gray to gray-brown. Only males possess short, backward-slanted horns. A unique feature is their hairy proboscis, which helps them conserve water through efficient nasal panting.1

These antelopes live in monogamous pairs, marking their territories with dung and urine. They are vulnerable to predators and employ a strategy of lying low until detected, then fleeing into thickets. Their alarm call, a "zik-zik" sound, gives them their name.1