Buzz
Introducing the pint-sized antelope with a name so delightful, it’s said twice.
1. The name 'dik-dik' comes from their distinctive alarm signal.
When scared, these tiny antelopes dart in a zig-zag motion, reaching speeds of up to 26mph, while emitting a nasal whistle that sounds like "dik-dik." This alert not only safeguards fellow dik-diks but also warns larger animals of potential threats. Interestingly, their scientific name, Madoqua kirkii, lacks the charm of their common moniker.
2. The Italian pop band Dik Dik shares no connection to the animal.
Their most famous track is a 1966 Italian rendition of "California Dreamin'." Blast it across the African savannah, and you’ll likely scare a dik-dik away.
3. Dik-diks are likely tinier than your canine companion.
These petite ungulates inhabit Eastern and Southern Africa, but their size would make them ideal for a New York City apartment. Standing just 12 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 7 to 15 pounds, they’re compact creatures—though they probably wouldn’t fetch a ball.
4. Their small stature attracts a diverse range of predators.
Most predators are the usual culprits: leopards, cheetahs, jackals, and even monitor lizards. However, the greatest danger comes from humans, who hunt dik-diks for their skin, often used to make gloves. Given their small size, each hide yields just a single glove.
5. Despite their size, they aren’t the smallest antelope species.
Mirko Raner
The title of smallest antelope goes to the West African royal antelope, which is no larger than a rabbit, weighing under 10 pounds and standing just 10 to 12 inches tall as an adult. Adorable!
6. Dik-diks prefer to live in pairs rather than large herds.
While most antelope thrive in herds for safety, dik-diks take a different approach. Once they find their lifelong partner, they remain a devoted pair for life—typically around four years in the wild. Dik-diks are monogamous and evict their young from their territory once they reach adulthood at seven months, often timed with the mother’s next pregnancy. Mothers drive away female offspring, while fathers expel the males.
7. Distinguishing males from females is straightforward.
In a pair, the female dik-dik is slightly larger. Alternatively, you can spot the males by their small, ribbed horns, a feature exclusive to them.
8. Dik-diks use tears to mark their territory.
To be precise, it’s preorbital glandular fluid, secreted from the black spot near their eyes. They rub their heads in grass, poking their eyes to spread this sticky substance. Additionally, they use urine and feces to make their territory smell familiar.
9. When it comes to their bathroom habits, they’re incredibly efficient with water.
Dik-diks consume minimal water. They produce the driest feces and most concentrated urine among all ungulates, ensuring no drop goes to waste. Perhaps they’re not the ideal apartment pets after all...
All images courtesy of iStock unless otherwise noted.
