Natal Red Duiker

The red forest duiker, also recognized as the Natal duiker or Natal red duiker, is a small and captivating antelope native to central and southern Africa. Belonging to the subfamily Cephalophinae, this species is distinguished by its diminutive size and reddish coat, setting it apart from the common duiker.

These antelopes thrive in dense bush habitats and are primarily diurnal, making them easier to observe compared to other forest duikers. As of 1999, their wild population was estimated at approximately 42,000 individuals.

In terms of dimensions, red forest duikers can reach up to 1 meter in body length and stand about 43 cm tall at the shoulder, averaging around 14 kg in weight. Both males and females possess short, straight horns, with the females' horns typically being smaller. Their reddish-brown coat is complemented by white markings on the chin, throat, and ears. They exhibit a distinctive hunched back and elongated hind legs, which aid in their swift escape responses.

Red forest duikers are commonly observed alone, in pairs, or in small family groups. They demarcate their territories using secretions from glands near their eyes and primarily consume leaves, flowers, and fruits. Following a gestation period of about 8 months, a single calf is usually born. In their natural habitat, these duikers can live up to 9 years.

Their favored habitats include forests and dense bush areas in proximity to water sources. They can be found in regions such as Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, including prominent locations like Kruger National Park. Despite facing threats from habitat loss due to human activities, they are currently categorized as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Here are a couple of interesting facts about red forest duikers: they are impressive jumpers, easily clearing heights of 1.3 meters, and the name "duiker" means 'diver' in Dutch, referring to their behavior of plunging into shrubbery to evade danger.