Habitat:
Rocky areas, cliffs, savannas

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The rock hyrax, or Procavia capensis, is a small herbivorous mammal found in Africa and the Middle East. It resembles a large rodent but is more closely related to elephants. Measuring about 50 cm in length and weighing 4 to 5 kg, it has dense brown fur, rounded ears, and short legs. Rock hyraxes live in colonies and are often seen basking on rocks. They communicate through a variety of calls and have a complex social structure. Although primarily herbivorous, they may also consume insects. Their adaptation to rocky environments allows them to evade many predators.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the rock hyrax, it is advisable to use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture detailed images without disturbing the animal. As hyraxes are diurnal, aim for early morning or late afternoon for soft lighting. Look for them on rocks where they like to bask. Maintain a safe distance of at least 10 m to avoid scaring them. Be patient and wait for them to relax to get natural shots.