Yellow-spotted rock hyrax
Heterohyrax brucei Length 35–50cm. Weight 2.5–3.5kg.
Rodent-like in appearance, hyraxes (also known as dassies) are claimed to be the closest living relative of elephants. Yellow-spotted rock hyraxes are often seen sunning themselves in rocky habitats, and become tame when used to people.

They are social animals, living in large groups, and largely herbivores, eating leaves, grasses and fruits. Where you see lots of dassies, watch out for black eagles and other raptors which prey extensively on them.

Similar species: Very similar, the tree hyrax (Dendrohyrax arboreus) has been recorded in a few locations on the eastern side of the country, including South Luangwa.