Suni
From Encyclopedia Jr, free information reference for Kids
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| Neotragus moschatus |
- For the Italian commune, see
Suni (Neotragus moschatus) are the smallest antelopes in the world. Their habitat is South-east Africa and depends on the dense underbrush. They feed on leaves, fungi, fruits and flowers.
Suni are usually around 12-17 inches at the shoulder. Male suni have short horns around 4-5 inches that curve backwards close to their heads. Females do not have horns. They are usually a brown color with black rings around their eyes and prominent red nostrils. Their hooves have a ring of black and their undersides are white. They can make weak barking and whistling sounds.
Suni are most active during the night, sleeping during the day. They mark their territory, about 3 acres, and are social. Males usually only take one mate, though they may have other females in the same territory. Lions, birds of prey, snakes, and other meat-eaters are their predators. For protection, they camouflage into the dry grass and hold very still. When the predator is almost on top of them, they spring out and bound away into the underbrush.
For pictures, please see to the links.