steenbok

Steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) is a small antelope in the family Bovidae, native to sub-Saharan Africa. The name comes from Afrikaans steenbok, meaning "stone antelope." It is one of the smallest antelopes, with a compact body, a short neck, and a slender, agile build. Adults stand roughly 40 cm at the shoulder and weigh about 8–12 kg. The coat is pale reddish-brown above and white below, with a pale face and sometimes a light dorsal stripe that helps camouflage in scrub.

Steenbok occupy open savannas, light woodlands, and scrubby plains across much of southern and eastern Africa. They favor habitats with dense bush or tall grasses for cover and with access to short grazing. They are typically solitary or found in mating pairs, and are highly territorial; males defend small territories marked with dung.

Diet consists mainly of grasses, leaves, shoots, and fruits. They are capable of obtaining sufficient moisture from food and can survive in arid environments with limited water.

Reproduction varies by region, but gestation is about six months, usually yielding a single calf which remains hidden for several weeks before joining the mother. Predators include lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals, as well as birds of prey on fawns.

Conservation status: Least Concern on the IUCN Red List due to wide distribution and large populations, though localized threats such as habitat loss and overgrazing can occur in some areas.