Grysbok Cape

Cape or Southern Grysbok (Raphicerus melanotis) is a small antelope that is endemic to the Western Cape region of South Africa between Albany and the Cedarberg Mountains.

It has a rough, reddish sandy coat flecked in white. The head, neck and legs are less flecked and somewhat yellowish, while the inside of the ears, eye-rings, mouth area, throat and underside are white. They have a black bridge to the nose and a dark scent gland in front of the eye and a very short tail. They stand 53cm (24 inches) at the shoulder and weighs slightly between 8-12kg (26lbs). The males have short, sharp, straight horns about 8cm long.

The Cape Grysbok can fluff up the fur at its rear end to make itself look bigger. They inhabit thick shrub and will sometimes graze orchards, vineyards and reed beds, they can go without water for long periods getting the fluid they require from the food they eat. The Grysbok is primarily nocturnal, though it may be seen during early morning and late evening during the southern winter.