What kind of animal is a hyrax? We will explain its characteristics, ecology, and habitat. The Cape Hyrax is very famous and is often kept in zoos, but there are other subspecies as well. And are they an endangered species? We will also introduce them to you, so please use them as a reference.
What is Hilux? About basic status
The hyrax is a mammal that belongs to the Hyraxidae family of the order Apocalyptiformes. The body length is 40-50 cm and the weight is 2.5-5 kg. The scientific name is Procavia capensis. The list of information is as follows.
| Japanese（和名） | ハイラックス |
| English（英名） | Hyrax |
| scientific name(学名) | Procavia capensis |
| classification（分類） | Mammalia、Hyracoidea、 Procaviidae 哺乳綱、イワダヌキ目、ハイラックス科 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | LEAST CONCERN |
| Length（体長） | 40～50cm |
| Weight（体重） | 2-5kg |
About classification
This is the only mammal belonging to the Hyrax family. The following variants exist:
- キノボリハイラックス属 Dendrohyrax
Dendrohyrax arboreus ミナミキノボリハイラックス Southern tree hyrax
Dendrohyrax dorsalis ニシキノボリハイラックス Western tree hyrax - イワハイラックス属 Heterohyrax
Heterohyrax brucei キボシイワハイラックス Yellow-spotted hyrax - ハイラックス属 Procavia
Procavia capensis ケープハイラックス Rock hyrax
About habitat
Hyraxes live mainly in southern Africa.
feature is? What kind of creature is it?
Hyraxes are primitive animals with characteristics similar to elephants and are not rats. There is a scent gland (dorsal gland) on the back, and the forelimbs have four fingers. There are three toes on the hind legs. Like elephant tusks, the upper incisors continue to grow throughout life. They are relatively small animals and usually spend their time secretly hiding in cracks in rocks. Because they have a weak ability to regulate their body temperature, they tend to raise their body temperature by sunbathing or huddled together, or lower their body temperature by hiding behind rocks.
What is your personality like?
Hyraxes are said to be very small animals, and they are wary and timid. However, when attacked by a foreign enemy, they become very aggressive and may bite you with their sharp incisors, threatening you.
What is the ecology like?
Hyrax eat grass, fruits, and flowers. Breeding occurs once a year, and the timing varies by region. The gestation period is about 7 months, and the lifespan is said to be about 10 to 15 years.
Are there any natural enemies?
Hyraxes are said to be very small creatures, and they have many natural enemies such as lions, jackals, snakes, and owls. Because it is so small, it is actually full of external enemies.
Is the hyrax an endangered species?
None of the subspecies are currently endangered. Therefore, the population is relatively stable.
Can you keep a Hyrax as a pet?
It is possible to keep them as pets. However, it is not easy to bring them into your home as a pet. This is because they have an aggressive personality, which makes them quite difficult for ordinary people. Obtaining a Hilux is not easy. Since it is rarely available for purchase at your local pet store, please inquire at the zoo. Once you enter the park, you will be given information about events within the park, so we recommend that you first interact with the exhibits and admire them when you have time.
Temperature control is essential
Hiluxes are not good at regulating their body temperature. Therefore, it is necessary to keep the temperature above 25 degrees during the day and around 20 degrees at night using air conditioners, heaters, and fans. For this reason, it is necessary to protect it indoors.
hideout
Hyraxes usually tend to hide in rock crevices. You will need a hideout. Set up something inside the cage that will serve as a hiding place. Please also prepare bedding materials.
pet food
Hyraxes like grass, fruits, plants, and flowers. Even in captivity, fresh vegetables and fruits that can be purchased at supermarkets are appropriate.
コメント