Maasai Cultural experience
Facts about Kirk's Dik Dik
Physical Characteristics Kirk's dikdiks are tiny antelopes that exhibit in shades of color depending on habitat—the drier semidesert areas usually have paler individuals. Dikdiks have large dark eyes surrounded by a white ring. A black spot below the inside corner of each eye contains a preorbital gland that produces a dark sticky secretion. Dikdiks insert grass stems and twigs into the gland to scent-mark their territories. To prevent overheating while minimizing need for water, the dikdik has evolved a particular cooling mechanism. Their elongated snouts have bellows-like muscles by which blood is pumped. Airflow and subsequent evaporation cools this blood before it is recirculated to the body. However, this panting is only implemented in extreme conditions—dikdiks can tolerate temperatures of up to 104° Fahrenheit. Habitat Dikdiks live in various habitats with good cover and plentiful browse, but without tall herbage. They are known to move to different range...
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