White-legged duiker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids White-legged duiker |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cephalophus
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| Species: |
crusalbum
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| Synonyms | |
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The white-legged duiker (Cephalophus crusalbum) is a type of small antelope. It belongs to a group of animals called duikers. Duikers are part of the bovid family, which includes cows and goats. This duiker lives in Gabon and the Republic of the Congo in Africa.
It was first described in 1978 by Peter Grubb. At that time, it was thought to be a type of Ogilby's duiker. But after more study in 2011, scientists decided it was its own unique species.
What Does the White-Legged Duiker Look Like?
The white-legged duiker is a medium-sized animal. Its body is usually about 96 to 104 centimeters (about 3 to 3.4 feet) long. Its tail is shorter, around 13 to 16 centimeters (5 to 6 inches). This duiker weighs about 20 kilograms (44 pounds).
Its Fur and Markings
The fur of this duiker is mostly golden brown. The back part of its body is darker than its sides. Its neck, front legs, and belly are grey. A wide black stripe runs down its back. This stripe starts at its shoulders and goes all the way to its tail. It is about 2.5 to 6 centimeters (1 to 2.4 inches) wide.
The top of its tail is golden brown, like its body. But the underside has longer, white hairs. The very end of its tail has a small tuft of golden brown fur.
Legs, Head, and Horns
The white-legged duiker has fairly long legs. Below its knees and ankles, its legs have clear white fur. Its throat and lower jaw are also white.
Its head is grey, but its forehead is a darker brown. The area around its nose is black. A bright, reddish-brown stripe goes over each eye. The fur between its eyes is a dark reddish-brown color. Its ears have some black hairs on the outside. Inside the ears, there are noticeable white hairs.
Both male and female duikers have horns. Male horns are longer, usually between 8.7 to 10.9 centimeters (3.4 to 4.3 inches). Female horns are shorter, about 5 centimeters (2 inches).
