Hyraxes are small, hoofed mammals that are native to Africa and the Middle East. They are also known as conies, dassies, or damans. The term 'hyrax' is derived from the Greek word for 'shrew-mouse'. Conies are the smallest of the hyrax species, measuring up to 8 inches in length. Dassies are slightly larger, measuring up to 12 inches in length. Damans are the largest of the hyrax species, measuring up to 16 inches in length. All hyraxes have short, rounded ears, short tails, and thick fur. They are herbivores, feeding on grasses, leaves, and fruits. Hyraxes live in colonies and are active during the day.