noun
- Plural of hyrax; small, stocky mammals native to Africa and the Middle East, resembling rodents but more closely related to elephants and manatees.
Usage: Zoology term; Also called coneys or rock badgers in some regions
Examples
- Hyraces are found in rocky habitats across Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
- The hyraces in the zoo exhibit were surprisingly agile climbers.
- Despite their appearance, hyraces are more closely related to elephants than to rodents.
- Several species of hyraces inhabit the cliffs and rocky outcrops of East Africa.
- Hyraces communicate with each other using various vocalizations and scent marking.