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Small mammals

South African springhare

South African springhare · Pedetes capensis

South African springhare
Südafrikanische Springhasen im Profil auf sandigem Boden am Grashang bei Nacht.

Discover the incredible jumping ability of the South African springhare, which hops through the savannah on its powerful hind legs.

Fact file

Size
Up to 45 cm body length and 40 cm tail length; weight between 2.5 and 4 kg.
Males and females
Males are slightly larger than females.
Sounds
Sounds like a whistling alarm call when they sense danger.
Diet
They feed mainly on grasses, roots and leaves.
Offspring
Females give birth to one or two young, which are independent at around 4 months.

How to identify South African springhare

The South African springhare has grey-brown fur with a paler underside. Its distinctive, elongated face and large eyes give it a special appearance.

It reaches a body length of up to 45 cm and has a tail of around 40 cm. The long hind legs are perfectly designed for high jumps, while the shorter front legs are used for digging and stability.

More in the app

With Wildful Stories+ you also get in the app:

  • general viewing tips
  • one place where you can see South African springhare

Where South African springhare live

Discover South African springhare on your trip.

The app shows you where and when to see wildlife along your route.

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