Rock Hyrax

Captive rock hyraxes make more than 20 different noises. In a study of their social networks, it was found that hyraxes that live in more "egalitarian" groups, in which social associations are spread more evenly among group members, survive longer. In addition, hyraxes are the first non-human species in which structural balance was described. They follow the "the friend of my friend is my friend" rule, and avoid unbalanced social configurations.

Adults make use of at least 21 different vocal signals. The most familiar signal is a high trill, given in response to perceived danger. Rock hyrax calls can provide important biological information such as size, age, social status, body weight, condition, and hormonal state of the caller, as determined by measuring their call length, patterns, complexity, and frequency.

The rock hyrax spends approximately 95% of its time resting. During this time, they can often be seen basking in the sun, which is thought to be an element of their complex thermoregulation.

Rock hyraxes build dwelling holes in any type of rock with suitable cavities such as sedimentary rocks and soil.

Hyraxes feed on a wide variety of different plants. They also have been reported to eat insects and grubs.

Rock hyraxes give birth to two or three young after a gestation period of 6–7 months (long, for their size).