Key Information
Hyraxes
| Species | 5 species, 50 or more subspecies |
| Diet | Herbivore |
| Length | Up to 17 to 22 inches |
| Weight | 5 to 6 lb |
| Life Span | 9 to 12 years |
| Conservation Status | Varies |
| Classification | Mammalia > Afrotheria > Paenungulata > Hyracoidea |
| Habitat | Various, including Forests, Deserts and Savannahs |
Learning Point
- The Hyrax is a small mammal, one species of which is mentioned in the Bible as the rock badger, which are known throughout Africa and the Middle East. The live in small family groups, with a dominant male protecting the family. There used to be many more species in the past, and they also lived in Europe and Asia.
Project
- Draw a hyrax at in its natural home (rocks or trees).
- Overview
- X-Ray
- Chewing
Location
| Places | Africa and Middle East |
Fun Facts
- Though they like to live in holes, they don’t construct dens like rodents do.
- Though not exactly chewing the cud, they eat in a way that looks very similar, and they have stomachs that have multiple chambers or parts.
- The incisors continue to grow throughout their life.
- Of the species of hyrax that exist, the rock hyrax is likely to be the rock badger of the Bible.
Past Lessons
| 120 | March 27, 2024 | (North America) |