R U Related to an Elephant?

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By: Big Cat Brian
Subscribers: 74
Updated: 30-Apr-09
Videos: 46

Basic English
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Views: 2,804
Added: 04-Jan-09

Even though we may describe some of our family members as being as big as elephants, the hyrax is actually the elephants closest living relative. It is believed the giant hyracoid family evolved in different ways millions of years ago. Some evolved smaller and became the hyrax family, while others started the elephant family.
Hyraxes, like elephants have four toes on each front foot and three on each back foot as well as other similar traits. Today they are broken down into 4 main species. The Southern and Western Hyrax, and then the Yellow-Spotted Rock and Cape Hyrax. They are listed as a vulnerable species due to their forest habitat being cut down for its wood. Some species are very social like elephants and can live in colonies up to of 50 members. Cape hyraxes often make large piles of dung and urine that eventually turn into hyraceum which has been used by locals as a medicine for treating epilepsy, convulsions, among other disorders. They are also hunted for their skin and as a food source.
Some groups that protect the land that is home to wildlife like the hyrax:
African Wildlife Foundation
International
Direct
for watching, and be sure to subscribe to my videos, which help me raise funds for wildlife conservation.
-Brian
*dedicated to Vinney Hyrax