Main Characteristics

Western Tree Hyraxes have a body length between 30 and 75 cms (12 - 30 inches) and they weigh between 1 and 5 kgs (2.2 - 11 lbs). They are grey/brown in colour and their fur is thick and soft. On their back they have a patch of lighter coloured hair that covers a scent gland.

They have small, rounded ears, short legs and they use loud, piercing calls to communicate with each other.

Habitat

Western Tree Hyraxes inhabit the subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests and moist savannas of west and central Africa. They are nocturnal and they are either solitary or live in small groups.

Diet

The diet of a Western Tree Hyrax mainly consists of grasses, leaves, bark, twigs, fruit and insects.

Breeding

After a gestation period of 6.5 - 7.5 months, 1 - 2 young hyraxes are born. At birth they are well developed and within a day they are able to climb trees. Western Tree Hyraxes reach sexual maturity at approximately 16 months old.

Predators

Predators of Western Tree Hyrax include birds of prey, leopards, african wild dogs, snakes and humans.

Subspecies

Subspecies of the Western Tree Hyrax include:

Dendrohyrax dorsalis dorsalis
Dendrohyrax dorsalis emini
Dendrohyrax dorsalis latrator
Dendrohyrax dorsalis marmota
Dendrohyrax dorsalis nigricans
Dendrohyrax dorsalis sylvestris

Interesting Facts

Western Tree Hyraxes are also known as:
Western Dassie
Beecroft's Dassie
Beecroft's Tree Hyrax

Hyraxes are within the group of mammals known as Afrotheria, as are elephants, elephant shrews, aardvark and dugong and manatees.

Similar Animals

Southern Tree Hyrax
Cape Hyrax
Yellow-Spotted Rock Hyrax