Introduction
Are you a fan of crossword puzzles? If so, then you know the thrill of solving a particularly difficult clue. One of the most challenging types of clues is the cryptic crossword clue, which requires you to think outside the box and use your knowledge of wordplay and puns to come up with the answer. In this article, we'll be looking at one such clue: "Smallest of all hoofed mammals".
The Clue
Let's break down the clue into its component parts. "Smallest" is obviously a reference to size, while "hoofed mammals" narrows down the field considerably. Hoofed mammals are a diverse group that includes deer, cows, horses, and many other animals. But what's the smallest of them all?
The Answer
The answer to this particular crossword clue is the duiker. Duikers are a type of antelope that are found in sub-Saharan Africa. They are incredibly small, with some species weighing less than 20 pounds and standing only a foot tall at the shoulder. Despite their small size, duikers are tough and agile animals that are perfectly adapted to life in the dense forests and savannas of Africa.
More About Duikers
If you're not familiar with duikers, here are a few more interesting facts about these fascinating animals:
- There are over 20 different species of duiker, each with its own unique characteristics and adaptations.
- Some species of duiker are nocturnal, while others are active during the day.
- Most duikers live in pairs or small family groups, although some species are solitary.
- Despite their small size, duikers are important prey animals for many predators, including lions, leopards, and hyenas.
Other Small Hoofed Mammals
While the duiker is the smallest of all hoofed mammals, there are many other small and fascinating animals in this group. Here are just a few:
- The mouse deer is a tiny hoofed mammal that is found in Southeast Asia. It is similar in size to a rabbit and has a distinctive, elongated snout.
- The pudu is a small deer that is found in South America. It stands only a foot tall at the shoulder and weighs less than 20 pounds.
- The kanchil is a small deer that is found in Southeast Asia. It is similar in size to the pudu and has a reddish-brown coat.
In Conclusion
So there you have it: the answer to the crossword clue "smallest of all hoofed mammals" is the duiker. But don't stop there! There are many other fascinating small hoofed mammals out there to discover and learn about.
