The Hyrax: Rodent or Mammal
Click on the image to purchase prints and downloads. Image details Nikon D200, f/8, 1/250 sec; ISO 300 Focal length 220mm, edited in Lightroom Classic
When I first saw the hyrax, I thought to myself I was looking at a large African rat or some other kind of rodent. The hyrax sat on a cluster of rocks basking in the sun, giving me a chance to photograph it. They were pleasant to photograph, posing perfectly for each shot. In fact, they appeared domesticated, showing no fear as I captured each image.
The Hyrax resembles a rodent, but it is actually a mammal. A mammal with a face that inspired me to photograph this incredible creature to share with others.
I took these photographs 20 years ago. I admit I forgot about the hyrax, but rediscovered it when I was recently challenging myself to edit and publish photographs taken with old digital technology. This little treasure had to see the light of day because it brought back the joy I had in photographing the hyrax.
Click on the image to purchase prints and downloads. Image details: Nikon D200, f/8; 1/250 sec, ISO 400, 220 mm, edited in Lightroom Classic
The hyrax lives in Africa and the Middle East. They eat fruits and leaves. They are often seen on rock formations or in trees. There are different types of hyraxes: rock, bush, and tree hyraxes. The hyrax featured in this post was photographed on rocks in the Serengeti. This is a rock hyrax, which is common in East Africa.
Image details: Nikon D200, f/8, ISO 400, 300mm, edited in Lightroom Classic.
The hyrax’s closest genetic relative is the elephant. With this unique fact in mind, I am sure you can see why the hyrax is a joy to share.
(Source for Hyax facts: afri afreak)