Suni

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Suni
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Family: Bovidae
Genus: Neotragus
Species: N. moschatus
Binomial name
Neotragus moschatus
For the Italian commune, see Suni.

Suni (Neotragus moschatus) are among the smallest antelopes in the world. They occur in South-east Africa in dense underbrush. They feed on leaves, fungi, fruits and flowers.

Suni are usually around 12-17 inches at the shoulder. Male Suni have short horns, around 4-5 inches long, that curve backwards close to their heads. Females do not have horns. They are usually a brown color with black rings around their eyes and prominent red nostrils. Their hooves have a ring of black and their undersides are white. They can make weak barking and whistling sounds.

Suni are most active during the night, sleeping during the day. They mark their territory, about 3 acres, and are social. Males usually only take one mate, though they may have other females in the same territory. Lions, birds of prey, snakes, and other meat-eaters prey on Suni. For protection, they are well camouflaged in dry grass and keep very still. When a predator is almost on top of them, they will spring out and bound away into the underbrush.


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