One of the tiniest and most charming antelopes found in the dry regions of northeastern Africa, particularly in countries like Ethiopia, Eritrea, and parts of Somalia and Sudan. It’s hard to believe an animal this small can survive in such a tough and often unforgiving environment. But Salt’s dik-dik has evolved some incredible skills and traits that make it perfectly suited for life in hot, dry landscapes.

One of the most distinctive features of Salt’s dik-dik is its elongated, pointed nose, which is not just for show—it helps regulate the animal’s body temperature. This clever adaptation, along with its ability to get nearly all of its water from moisture-rich plants and fruits, means Salt’s dik-dik rarely needs to drink water from open sources. It’s a master of desert living, able to stay hydrated and cool in places where many larger animals would struggle.

Salt’s dik-dik is a shy and secretive creature. It prefers to stay hidden in dense shrubs and thickets where its sandy-gray coat blends in perfectly with the dry vegetation. They’re very territorial and use scent marking to keep others away, using preorbital glands near their eyes to leave marks on twigs and grasses. They are active during the early morning and late afternoon when temperatures are cooler, spending the hottest parts of the day resting in the shade.

A fun fact about Salt’s dik-dik is the sound that gave it its name. When alarmed, the female makes a high-pitched “dik-dik” noise—almost like a squeak—which serves as a warning call to her partner and a potential distraction for predators. If danger gets too close, Salt’s dik-dik doesn’t rely on strength or aggression but instead uses speed and agility. It can dash away in quick, zigzagging runs to throw off predators like jackals, hyenas, or birds of prey.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Djibouti

2016

Eritrea

2016

Ethiopia

2016

Kenya

2016

Presence Uncertain

Somalia

2016

Sudan

2016