Smith's Rock Elephant Shrew
wildlife of Namibia
Introduction: Smith's rock elephant shrew (Elephantulus rupestris) is so named as it frequents koppies and rocky habitats, ideal for seeking refuge in semi-desert regions. They propel themselves by bouncing off the ground using their larger hind legs, a feature used to travel distances quite quickly to escape predators. A territorial creature, individuals of the same sex can show aggressive behaviour towards each other, a trait that is common between males and females. Foot-drumming and scent marking are common communicative characteristics of Smith's rock elephant shrew.
Distribution: Central highlands of Namibia and Kaokoland.
Diet: Ants and termites, but may eat certain vegetative matter.
Colouring: Light brown fur. Narrow white eye rings, with a distinctive broad patch of rufous/yellow hair at the base of the ears. The proboscis is grey-brown with a narrow, dark line at the top.
Breeding: Females can produce several litters a year of 1 or 2 young.
Size: Total body length of 270mm with a longer tail. Weight: 65g.
Epupa Falls Lodge A tented camp on the banks of the Kunene River close to Epupa Falls and Himba settlements
Fort Sesfontein
On the border between Kaokoland and Damaraland this fort was built at the same time as the fort of Namutoni in Etosha
Kapika Waterfall Lodge
On a hill above the Kunene river, the lodge has tremendous views of the surrounding area and looks towards the Epupa Falls
Kunene River Lodge
An excellent lodge in a remote location on the banks of the Kunene River, for those interesting in birding, relaxing or river rafting this lodge is an absolute must
Ohakane Lodge
One of the oldest lodges in the Kaokoland area, from here guest can visit Himba villages and other areas of interest in Kaokoland
Okahirongo Elephant Lodge
Near the tiny settlement of Puros, this luxury lodge offers you the ability to search for the desert adapted elephants
Okahirongo River Camp
On a hillside overlooking the Kunene River this small intimate camp offers accommodation for a maximum of 14 people.
Opuwo Country Lodge
This is one of the newer lodges in Opuwo - it has beautiful views over Kaokoland -a real desert oasis
