The Adorably Tiny Dik-Dik Antelope-People

As you can see from my delightful, miniature features, dik-dik-people are some of the daintiest antelope-citizens of the African continent! My species is one of four varieties in the genus Madoqua. I am a lad from the Kirk’s dik-dik group, which resides in the acacia savannahs of Kenya and Tanzania. Then I have three sets of cousins − Guenther’s dik-dik-folk, Salt’s dik-dik-gentlepeople, and the silver dik-dik-clique – who all inhabit the thick bushes of the Horn of Africa, mainly in Somalia and Ethiopia.

Indeed, we are some of the smallest members of the antelope-kingdom, standing only 35 to 45 centimeters in height with weights ranging from about 4 to 8 kilograms. We are smaller than many dog-people companions! To be sure, our petite size plus incredible agility and extreme cuteness are the trademark characteristics of dik-dik-people. Did you know that we also have a talent for whistling? We do this whenever we are alarmed to alert our neighbors.

Instead of forming large groups, we prefer to live in pairs and enjoy the company of our one true love. Once a couple has established its territory, the mama can bear a single offspring twice per year, at the beginning and end of the rainy season. She takes responsibility for feeding her baby while both parents provide protection and instruction in the ways of the world.

Sadly, I must report a few tragedies we have endured in recent years. Of course, life on Earth is never completely free of trouble, but it seems that the biggest threat facing us now is people. For example, vast swaths of countryside have been destroyed due to human-caused climate change. Even more heartbreaking for us is the loss of loved ones killed for their skin and body parts. Some consumers want accessories and jewelry made from our bones and horns. Many others are interested in suede gloves and bags, but this is a terrible injustice.

Fortunately, the tide is turning, and innovators with compassionate hearts are working tirelessly to develop vegan leather alternatives. An increasing variety of stylish, durable and affordable products are now available, unstained by the suffering and death of innocent beings. This trend brings tremendous hope to my fellow dik-dik-people and the entire animal-people kingdom.