Cephalophini

Cephalophini is a subtribe of antelopes belonging to the family Bovidae. This group encompasses the dik-diks, a genus of small, enigmatic ungulates found in the savannas and bushlands of eastern and southern Africa. The most defining characteristic of cephalophines is their diminutive size, with most species standing less than a meter tall at the shoulder. Their name, derived from Greek words meaning "head" and "to flee," alludes to their common habit of darting into dense cover at the slightest disturbance, often with a high-pitched whistle.

The subtribe is comprised of several distinct genera and species, with the most widely recognized being the dik-diks, belonging to the genus Madoqua. These tiny animals are known for their slender legs, large eyes, and preorbital glands, which secrete a dark, tar-like substance used for scent marking. Cephalophines are primarily herbivores, feeding on leaves, twigs, fruits, and flowers. They are often seen in monogamous pairs, a characteristic that sets them apart from many other antelope species. These pairs maintain and defend small territories.

Reproduction in cephalophines is notable for the relatively long gestation period for their size, followed by the birth of a single offspring. The young are precocial, capable of standing and walking soon after birth. Their secretive nature and preference for dense habitats make them challenging to study, contributing to a degree of mystery surrounding their precise ecological roles and population dynamics. Despite their small stature, they play a role in their ecosystems as prey animals for various predators.