264 A COLONY IN THE MAKING ch. xxvi 



as he is a small mark, forms rather a fascinating object 

 to pursue. A point with regard to the species which 

 has not been generally noted is that both male and 

 female bear horns. In South Africa it is with rare 

 exceptions only the males which are so distinguished. 

 Duiker and steinbok are most mischievous little brutes, 

 and for their size do more harm to young crops than 

 any other animals, with the possible exception of baboons. 

 Much, however, is forgiven them by the sporting 

 farmer on account of the fine scent they provide. 

 Both the Masara Hounds and several bobbery packs 

 in various portions of the Highlands chase such small 

 buck as an alternative to jackal, and of the two, most 

 people hold that the former provide the better runs. 

 It takes, however, a good pack, a good scent, and a 

 long chase to pull one down. It is for this reason that 

 I include what many might consider merely a nuisance 

 in this list. The flesh of all small buck is excellent. 

 Duiker especially make delightful pets, and run in and 

 out of the house in the friendliest manner. It is 

 almost impossible, however, to keep them away from 

 rose buds. The leaves of rose bushes they are 

 partial to, but the flower is their special delight, and 

 they will bolt a full-blown rose like a pill. Harvey s 

 Duiker, though somewhat local, is quite common in 

 the Ngong forest and in any thick bush as far north as 

 Kijabe. 



