National Parks/ Sanctuaries
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Common Names
aders' duiker
Regions
KenyaTanzaniaCameroon
Population
14,000
Habitat
Coastal Forests and Thickets
Weight(in lbs) and Life Span
12–14 kg (26–31 lbs) and 10–12 years in the wild
Regions
Kenya, Tanzania, Cameroon, Gabon
The Aders' Duiker (Cephalophus adersi) is a small, shy antelope known for its reddish-brown coat and white underbelly, which help it blend into dense forest habitats. This critically endangered species is endemic to coastal forests in Zanzibar and Kenya, where it forages for fruits, leaves, and shoots. Weighing between 12 and 14 kg, it is most active during early morning and late afternoon, avoiding predators and human activity. With an estimated population of fewer than 1,400 individuals, the Aders' Duiker is critically endangered due to habitat loss from deforestation, agricultural expansion, and hunting. Climate change poses additional risks by altering its coastal forest habitat. Conservation measures, including habitat protection and anti-poaching initiatives, are crucial to ensure the survival of this unique antelope.
Activity Instructions
- Draw the Animal: Use the next page to draw a picture of the animal. Use your imagination and make it colorful!
- Write an Essay: Write a short essay about the conservation efforts to save this animal. Here are some questions to guide you:
- Why is this species important in its ecosystem?
- What are the threats it faces, and how can we help?
- What do you find most interesting about this species?
