Dik-Dik

A Dik-dik is a name for any of four species of small antelope in the genus Madoqua that live in the bushlands of eastern and southern Africa. To help them live in arid areas, dik-diks have unique physiological adaptations. For example, dik-diks have less sweat gland density than other mammals like cattle. Similar to this, dik-diks can concentrate their urine in more arid settings. These modifications aid dik-diks in retaining body water. Diki-diks are projected to have among the highest metabolic rates and highest energy requirements per kilogram of all ruminants due to their small stature. However, as a physiological adaptation to the heat and aridity, dik-diks have a lower metabolic rate than would be expected for their size.

Dik-diks can live for up to ten years and are roughly 30-40 centimeters (12-15.5 in) tall at the shoulder, 50-70 centimeters (19.5-27.5 in) long, and 3-6 kilograms (6.6-13.2 lb) in weight. The alarm sounds of the females gave rise to the moniker "dik-dik." Both the male and the female create a harsh, whistling noise in addition to the alarm call of the female. Other animals may be made aware of predators by these calls.