African Black Duiker

Black Duiker

(Cephalophus niger)

Current all time records
SCI: Score 16 6/16 - Liberia, Grebo Forest - 4/87
Rowland Ward: Score 6 7/8 - Ghana - 1927

Description: As its name suggests, the black duiker's coat is dark brown or black in colour, composed of relatively long, glossy hairs. Contrasting with the dark coloration, the forehead and head tuft are reddish brown. The jowls and upper neck are light gray, while the short tail has a white underside. The undersides may be slightly lighter than the back. Both sexes carry the simple, spike-like horns, which are often hidden in the rufous forehead tuft. In females they grow 2.5-3 cm / 1-1.2 inches long, while in males they generally reach lengths ranging from 7.5-17.5 cm / 3-7 inches.

Other Common Names:

Size:

Range: Primarily hunted in Liberia but occurs in several contiguous countries; January - August.

Natural History: Little is known about the habits of the Black Duiker - even its primary activity periods are suspect. Differing authorities have reported that the black duiker is diurnal, crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk), or nocturnal, although the latter two seem more likely. Seldom seen, this shy antelope retreats into cover at the first sign of danger. It is believed to be territorial. The black duiker's large mouth is an adaption to eating fruit, which it does by holding the fruit in its mouth and cleaving off small pieces, which are quickly chewed and swallowed.

Hunting Characteristics: