# Klipspringer (*Oreotragus oreotragus*)

> The klipspringer (Oreotragus oreotragus) is a tiny African antelope that bounces on rubbery hoof tips across rock faces. Adults weigh about 12 kg, pair for life, and are listed Least Concern.

- **Category:** Mammal
- **Conservation status (IUCN):** Least Concern
- **Range:** Rocky hills across eastern and southern Africa.
- **Canonical page:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/klipspringer/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Scientific classification

- **Kingdom:** Animalia
- **Phylum:** Chordata
- **Class:** Mammalia
- **Order:** Artiodactyla
- **Family:** Bovidae
- **Genus:** Oreotragus

## Facts at a glance

| Attribute | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Scientific name | Oreotragus oreotragus |
| Diet | Herbivore |
| Habitat | Rocky outcrops and hills |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years |
| Weight | 10–14 kg |
| Top speed | up to 40 km/h |
| Conservation status | Least Concern (IUCN) |

## Hooves like climbing shoes

Cylindrical, rubbery hooves grip smooth rock. Stocky build and coarse, hollow hair insulate against sun and cold on exposed kopjes.

## Leaves and lichens on cliffs

Pairs browse leaves, fruit, flowers, and lichens within rock territories they rarely leave. One partner often stands guard while the other feeds.

## Rocky hills of sub-Saharan Africa

From Ethiopia and East Africa south to the Cape. Granite and basalt outcrops in savanna and montane zones hold populations.

## Secure on the stones

Least Concern where hills remain undeveloped. Snaring and habitat conversion threaten local groups, but cliff refuges protect many pairs.

## Frequently asked questions

### How do klipspringers climb so well?

Rounded, rubbery hoof tips act like climbing shoes on smooth rock surfaces.

### Do klipspringers live in herds?

Usually monogamous pairs on a cliff territory, sometimes with one offspring.

### What does klipspringer mean?

Afrikaans for 'rock jumper' — describing their bouncing escape on boulders.

### How big is a klipspringer?

About 50 cm at the shoulder and 12 kg — one of Africa's smallest antelopes.

### Where do klipspringers sleep?

On ledges and rock shelves within their territory, using cliffs to avoid predators.

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Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/klipspringer/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.