 A member of the dwarf antelope group,
Steenbok are petite, weighing 7-16 kg and measuring 70-95 cm in length. Unlike the
crouched stance of forest duikers, steenbok carry their heads high and have long legs,
with a shoulder height between 45 and 60 cm. The hind quarters and lower parts/belly are
pure white. The male Steenbok have upright, slender horns projecting above the eyes.
Conspicuous black, facial glands are situated in front of the large, dark brown eyes.
These pre-orbital glands are noticeable in both sexes
Name: Raphicerus campestris
Diet Description: Browsers. Shoots, young leaves, flowers, fruits.
Habitat: Open savannah country where they are reliant on adequate cover in the
form of taller grass and bushes.
Distribution: Steenbok are abundant occurring in South Africa. Distributed widely
throughout the country and considered a common species.
Socialisation: This delicate little dwarf antelope spends the day moving through
the savannah in search of food. Although it feeds on many kinds of plants and fruit, the
steenbok can go for long periods without drinking, a useful adaptation in a dry habitat.
Reproduction: Gestation is seven months after which a single lamb is born. Lambs
are concealed for the first three to four months, during which time the mother only makes
contact in the early morning and evening to feed and groom the infant.
Steenbok use old aardvark burrows as places to raise their young, and as refuges from
predators.
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