Rock Rabbit

The Rock Rabbit, also known as the Rock Hyrax or Hyrax, is a fascinating small mammal belonging to the order Hyracoidea. This species is characterized by its compact body covered in short, coarse hair and small ears. It has a robust body shape and typically weighs between 2 - 4 kg. Despite its appearance, which resembles a large rodent, the Rock Rabbit is more closely related to elephants and manatees. Its skin is specially adapted to secrete a sticky substance, aiding it in climbing rock faces. Rock Rabbits are found throughout eastern Africa, including the Eastern Cape of South Africa, where they thrive in rocky areas.

Hunting the Rock Rabbit is a unique experience that combines skill, precision, and patience. These animals are highly alert and can move swiftly between rocks and hidden areas, making the hunt an exciting challenge. In the Eastern Cape, hunting the Rock Rabbit is popular as the terrain offers ample opportunity to observe and pursue the animals in their natural habitat. Hunters must be mindful of their surroundings and use the area's natural cover to approach the prey without being detected.

To achieve an effective and humane kill of the Rock Rabbit, it is crucial to focus on precise shot placement. It is recommended to aim for the upper chest area, just behind the shoulder, where its vital organs are located. This ensures that the shot hits the heart and lungs, resulting in a quick and as painless as possible kill. Due to the Rock Rabbit's small size and quick movements, this requires a hunter with high precision and a steady hand.

Optimal Rifle for the Hunt

Given the Rock Rabbit's small size, it is advisable to use a light caliber rifle. A .22 caliber rifle is ideal for this type of hunting as it provides sufficient precision and lethal effect without overdoing the damage to the small animal. A rifle with a good scope is also preferable to maximize accuracy, especially when hunting in the uneven rocky terrain.

• NAME: ROCK RABBIT

• SCIENTIFIC NAME: PROCAVIA CAPENSIS

• WEIGHT MALE: 4 KG

• WEIGHT FEMALE: 4 KG

• BODY LENGTH MALE: 50 CM

• BODY LENGTH FEMALE: 50 CM