There are six Kirk’s dik-diks here at Edinburgh Zoo: Thistle, Petal, Drax, Noodle, Stir-Fry and Tik.

FACT FILE

• Dik-diks are one of the world's smallest antelope species, typically only weighing up to 7kg

• They get their name from the distinctive ‘dik-dik’ call they make when startled - they will jump from their hiding place and move in a series of zig-zag leaps while making this call to confuse predators

• They tend to form monogamous mating pairs and can have two babies per year

• Dik-diks mark their territory with their tears!

HOW WE'RE HELPING

Wild populations of Kirk’s dik-diks are in decline due to agricultural settlement and excessive hunting. Here at RZSS, our Kirk’s dik-diks are part of the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) which ensures a healthy and genetically diverse population.

Like all the animals in our care our Kirk’s dik-diks are amazing ambassadors for their relatives in the wild and help hundreds of thousands of people connect with nature every year. They encourage visitors to learn about the threats facing wildlife and the action they can take to help create a world where nature is protected, valued and loved.

As a wildlife conservation charity, we care for the animals here at the zoo and work to protect species at risk around the world. From providing expertise in genetics and veterinary health, to protecting wild places with local conservation partners, and even restoring threatened species to the wild, we are active where we are needed most.

Find out more about RZSS conservation