Unikapi (you-nee-kah-pee)

Unikapis can be found primarily on the eastern side of the breathing ridge. They are mostly solitary but can sometimes live in small herds, mostly in forests and grasslands. Both males and females possess one large horn in the middle of their forehead, although males usualy have slightly larger ones. This horn is used for both offense, defence and for marking territory by scraping the bark off trees. The horn keeps growing throughout their lives and must be worn down periodically or it will eventually bend backwards and become unusable.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Unikapis are tall ungulates with a reddish-brown coat and white markings. They have four long legs with cloven hooves and a long tail with a long white fur tuft. They have a white mane along their neck and spine, as well as a long beard and chest fur. They have large ears and one very long horn in the middle of the forehead, the horn curves slightly backwards.

Genetics and Reproduction

Unikapis mate in fall, where bucks will fight for does through "fencing" with their horns. Does will give birth in spring the following year.

Growth Rate & Stages

The fawn are born without a horn, and will stay with their mother for 2 years when they reach maturity and grow a horn.

Ecology and Habitats

Unikapis prefer warm to temperate grasslands and forests where they can graze while keeping a look out for predators.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Unikapis are herbivorous grazers and eat a variety of grasses, leaves and moss.

Behaviour

Unikapis usually have a calm demeanor but can easly become defensive and aggressive when threatened.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Unikapis have sensetive hearing but poor vision. They rely on their sense of smell to find food.

Name Origin & Meaning

The name "unikapi" comes from the varan words "uni"=one, and "kapi"=cut/slash.

Lifespan

20 - 30 years

Average Height

1.4 - 1.8 meters (at the shoulder)

Average Weight

200 - 400 kg.

Geographic Distribution

• Eastern savannah
• Kuali swamp
• Lakishi forest
• Ona fields
• The sanctuary

Terminology

• A male unikapi is called a buck.
• A female unikapi is called a doe.
• A juvenile unikapi is called a fawn.
• A group of unikapis is called a herd.
• The plural of unikapi is unikapis.