...continued from https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/70250-the-bambis-part-8-adaptive-colouration-in-grysboks-raphicerus-melanotis-and-raphicerus-sharpei#
Also see https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/70368-a-new-feature-of-adaptive-colouration-in-ungulates-the-fibular-flag#
Dear reader, please toggle between the two photos in https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/59156961. What do you notice, and what do you think the display means?
Now examine the following, which nicely shows the anti-predator context in which this display is deployed.
Are these individuals displaying their white buttocks to each other (as per the textbooks) or to the potential predator (in this case, the photographer, Tony Rebelo)?
The following is my interpretation of all of the various conspicuous features of colouration in the three spp. of Raphicerus (https://www.inaturalist.org/observations?place_id=any&taxon_id=42373&view=species).
BLEEZES (patterns of dark/pale colouration so conspicuous that they are obvious even when the figure is stationary, and even at a distance):
These are absent from all three spp. of Raphicerus (in contrast to e.g. Ourebia ourebi ourebi, https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/69937-adaptive-colouration-in-the-oribi-southern-forms-are-more-conspicuous-than-northern-forms#).
FLAGS (patterns of dark/pale colouration of moderate size, which become conspicuous only when activated by movement, of either a body part or the whole figure):
Auricular flags:
These are absent from all three spp. of Raphicerus (in contrast to e.g. Oreotragus saltatrixoides, https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/57595-the-bambis-part-4-a-new-species-of-klipspringer-in-southern-africa#).
Ischial flags:
An ischial flag is present in Raphicerus campestris, but absent from the other two spp.
The following show the ischial flag not activated:
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=5&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=526322906
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=5&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=516776123
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?k=steenbok&asset_id=96029539
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=6&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=234422799
https://www.gettyimages.in/detail/photo/escaping-little-antelope-royalty-free-image/590583929?adppopup=true
scroll to 6th photo in http://visitcradock.co.za/mountain-zebra-national-park-cradock/#lightbox/5/
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&search_page=2&get_facets=0&search_type=pagination&asset_id=441156073
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?k=steenbok&asset_id=51231777
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?k=steenbok&asset_id=103481637
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=3&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=121268962
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=7&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=75206813
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/close-photo-small-buck-called-steenbok-2008884197
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-standing-alert-kruger-national-park-1953181489
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collectn%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=6&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=426829025
The following show the ischial flag activated, while the figure is stationary in mild/initial alarm:
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=7&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=473588352
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=7&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=469948759
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=7&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=240700963
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=6&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=180230559
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=7&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=180230715
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=7&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=239510784
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?k=steenbok&asset_id=7826589
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&search_page=2&get_facets=0&search_type=pagination&asset_id=441230341
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?k=steenbok&asset_id=404356409
https://southafrica.co.za/how-to-identify-steenbok.html
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?k=steenbok&asset_id=526997849
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&search_page=2&get_facets=0&search_type=pagination&asset_id=322753486
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=6&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=186548226
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=7&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=239510784
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=8&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=240700963
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/cute-steenbok-on-alert-front-tree-1890922669
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-aphicerus-campestris-smallest-antelope-southern-1214048647
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-bush-south-africa-1302941758
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/85907385)
The following show the buttock flag activated, while fleeing:
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/115766655
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/13490802
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=4&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=466446514
https://www.cimicorp.com/DI/Collection29/slides/Africa_20081101_103818_926_2X.html
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbuck-raphicerus-campestris-running-over-dirt-1126962635
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/111775121
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/71315273)
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/73647662
Fibular flags:
Please see https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/70368-a-new-feature-of-adaptive-colouration-in-ungulates-the-fibular-flag#.
Pedal flags:
A pedal flag is present in some subspecies/individuals of Raphicerus sharpei (see https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/70250-the-bambis-part-8-adaptive-colouration-in-grysboks-raphicerus-melanotis-and-raphicerus-sharpei#)
It is possibly also present in some individuals of R. campestris:
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/sreenbok-antelope-kruger-national-park-south-47160058
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbuck-622472594
https://www.gettyimages.com.au/detail/photo/side-view-of-deer-standing-on-field-royalty-free-image/1396349874
https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-steenbok-in-the-wild-7057626/
Caudal flags:
These are absent from all three spp., the tails of which are small and plain-coloured.
SEMETS (patterns of relatively dark/relatively pale colouration of small size, conspicuous only at close range, and only when activated by movement of the body part concerned)
Auricular semets (see e.g. https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/55694-ten-best-illustrations-of-auricular-semets-in-deer#):
These are absent from all three spp.
Buccal semets:
A buccal semet is possibly present in all three spp., consisting of
- the darkness of the rhinarium, the rostrum adjacent to the rhinarium, and the bare edge of the lower lip, vs
- the paleness of the pelage of the lips and, to various extents, the sides of the mandibles.
This buccal semet is, in human eyes, clearest in Raphicerus campestris:
https://www.inaturalist.org/photos/8333
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-aka-steinbuck-steinbok-male-140509621
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/80251823
https://www.alamy.com/steenbok-raphicerus-campestris-young-male-portrait-south-africa-mpumalanga-kruger-national-park-image345028232.html?imageid=7C5917E7-A9ED-4B1B-B500-0DB8D4366C4B&p=853442&pn=1&searchId=18a1c61216ed6fd2c4b1d370fb8cd884&searchtype=0
https://www.alamy.com/steenbok-raphicerus-campestris-male-portrait-south-africa-mpumalanga-kruger-national-park-image345028364.html?imageid=DFDD0021-A370-4B2C-9C81-EB338FDB72D7&p=853442&pn=1&searchId=18a1c61216ed6fd2c4b1d370fb8cd884&searchtype=0
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-aka-steinbuck-steinbok-female-140509576
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-raphicerus-campestris-relaxed-resting-lying-785515177
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/90699392
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=5&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=396572092
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=5&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=396572147
It is least clear in Raphicerus melanotis:
see https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/70250-the-bambis-part-8-adaptive-colouration-in-grysboks-raphicerus-melanotis-and-raphicerus-sharpei#.
DISCUSSION
The following is typical of the social setting in which the buccal semet hypothetically functions: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-raphicerus-campestris-relaxed-resting-lying-785515171.
Pedal flags are poorly-developed in all spp. of Raphicerus, in contrast to certain coexisting species/subspecies such as Sylvicapra grimmia caffra (https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=5&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=362016670).
The main feature of adaptively conspicuous colouration in Raphicerus is the buttock flag of R. campestris (https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/126223294).
However, even this feature is subtle, in keeping with the emphasis on hiding from predators, wherever possible, in these diminutive ruminants.
This buttock flag is phylogenetically related to bleezes on the buttocks of gazelles (e.g. Nanger granti, https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cb/Nanger_granti.jpg). In both Gazella and R. campestris, the pelage on the buttocks can be flared by piloerection, to enhance conspicuousness.
However, the buttock flag of R. campestris differs in at least three ways from those of gazelles, viz.
The following show the shift in the shape of the back, from
The following show the boosting in the conspicuousness of the white of the buttocks as the posture changes from unalarmed (https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-aka-steinbuck-steinbok-male-140509591) to mildly/initially alarmed (https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/147143600 and https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/132963728 and https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-standing-frozen-scared-13160773 and https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/118911269).
The following suggests that, as long as the hindquarters remain hunched, the buttock flag can hardly be displayed: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/small-antelope-called-steenbok-enjoying-spring-42206143. What is needed is at least the posture shown in: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-raphicerus-campestris-kalahari-injury-on-80500765.
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Σεπτέμβριος 25, 2022 1015 ΜΜ
by
milewski
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Raphicerus campestris, viewed under different conditions of illumination (buttock flag not activated in either case):
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=6&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=237819650
https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aphoto%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aillustration%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Azip_vector%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Avideo%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Atemplate%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3A3d%5D=1&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aaudio%5D=0&filters%5Binclude_stock_enterprise%5D=0&filters%5Bis_editorial%5D=0&filters%5Bfree_collection%5D=0&filters%5Bcontent_type%3Aimage%5D=1&k=steenbok&order=relevance&safe_search=1&limit=100&search_page=6&search_type=pagination&get_facets=0&asset_id=289473517
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/desert-adapted-steenbok-1145978966
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-raphicerus-campestris-savuti-area-botswana-775034383
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steinbuck-37687867
@beartracker
The following show how Raphicerus campestris folds its ear pinnae back and down when mildly/initially alarmed in a position where evading detection, by the newly-arrived potential predator, remains possible.
This is often done asymmetrically, the ear pinnae being moved independently.
This is one of the most characteristic and frequently observed aspects of the behaviour of Raphicerus campestris. I have seen no evidence of its occurrence in R. melanotis. As for R. sharpei, I have not seen any photo showing this behaviour.
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/20162419
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steinbuck-hiding-typical-first-response-danger-37721956
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbuck-ram-having-rest-1031641915
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/cute-little-steenbok-antelope-lying-on-1626360049
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-antelope-southern-african-savanna-466296137
The following (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k05o3uULosg) shows that Raphicerus campestris does not activate the buttock flag in masculine rivalry, even when the action is hectic.
@beartracker
SYLVICAPRA GRIMMIA
From about minute 1:00, the following (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYbR5G_ja-8) shows a particular display of the pedal flag in Sylvicapra grimmia caffra. The animal cross-walks in an exaggerated way, as if to stamp the feet rather than to locomote. I do not recall any mention of this behaviour in the literature.
Also please note that the tail remains inert.
The following (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAdAliqXntQ) shows the action involved in displaying the buccal semet, in Raphicerus campestris.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=499xSPa8iwI
The following shows that the white fur of the buttock flag grows from skin that is darkly pigmented: https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/122213410.
The pattern on the hindquarters of Ourebia ourebi ourebi (scroll to two excellent photos in https://www.africahunting.com/threads/south-africa-adroda-safaris-hunt-report.63963/page-2) differs from that of Raphicerus campestris, in the following ways:
a) the white on the buttocks is permanently extensive and exposed, and is not flared,
b) the tail is conspicuously dark, contrasting with the white on the buttocks.
To my mind, the pattern in O. o. ourebi is aptly described as a bleeze.
It remains uncertain whether O. o. ourebi qualifies for a caudal flag. On one hand, the tail is indeed activated, i.e. raised, in the display. On the other hand, it would function as part of the display even if left inert.
Also see https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/70050-the-three-main-types-of-oribi-ourebia-at-a-glance# and https://www.inaturalist.org/journal/milewski/70005-are-there-two-species-of-oribi-ourebia-instead-of-one#.
Here is a test for readers. In the following (https://stock.adobe.com/ro/search?k=steenbok&asset_id=159342618), is the buttock flag activated or not?
See comment in https://www.inaturalist.org/posts/69990-the-unique-sexual-dimorphism-of-the-northern-oribi-ourebia-montana-an-ungulate-combining-polygamy-with-male-diminution#activity_comment_3a65fe4b-85c7-4ceb-abd0-45028acfb609, viz. https://www.inaturalist.org/comments/10455912/edit.
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/103249861
Both Raphicerus campestris and Oreotragus cross-walk. However, the gait of the latter is a near-perfect cross-walk.
https://depositphotos.com/608013374/stock-photo-afrikanischer-steinbock-steenbok-raphicerus-campestris.html
https://depositphotos.com/608012010/stock-photo-afrikanischer-steinbock-steenbok-raphicerus-campestris.html
https://www.alamy.com/steenbok-etosha-namibia-august-2013-image398760796.html?imageid=7BC16911-F50B-45AC-A433-8EB207A76DE3&p=557829&pn=1&searchId=fe693ed889a37fdb5d6f8ae9134ee9c6&searchtype=0
https://www.alamy.com/steenbok-etosha-namibia-august-2013-image398761048.html?imageid=61A56694-280D-4FDE-87AC-2E117B5793CC&p=557829&pn=1&searchId=fe693ed889a37fdb5d6f8ae9134ee9c6&searchtype=0
https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-steenbok-raphicerus-campestris-walking-south-africa-krueger-national-76132028.html
https://www.alamy.com/male-klipspringer-oreotragus-oreotragus-a-dry-country-antelope-with-thick-coat-walking-on-tip-toe-on-rocky-lava-in-tsavo-west-np-kenyaafrica-image241664074.html
https://depositphotos.com/55291797/stock-photo-bontebok-antelopes.html
https://depositphotos.com/1995678/stock-photo-red-lechwe-antelope.html
https://www.alamy.com/cape-eland-image356967719.html?imageid=7CFD35EF-C6A6-4979-B1EA-A0610ABD6F8E&p=557829&pn=1&searchId=fe693ed889a37fdb5d6f8ae9134ee9c6&searchtype=0
https://www.alamy.com/cape-eland-image356967771.html?imageid=723EE624-5A48-4673-A4BB-6E9A6398DB0A&p=557829&pn=1&searchId=fe693ed889a37fdb5d6f8ae9134ee9c6&searchtype=0
https://www.alamy.com/steenbok-raphicerus-campestris-male-stands-in-a-field-south-africa-north-west-province-pilanesberg-national-park-image255403860.html?imageid=D526420D-3A02-4DEA-B5B6-1E67524F8E1D&p=851122&pn=1&searchId=18a1c61216ed6fd2c4b1d370fb8cd884&searchtype=0
https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-steenbok-raphicerus-campestris-karoo-national-park-south-africa-74756719.html?imageid=F891ECE1-FEAC-4158-AC92-861D96D5236A&p=12455&pn=3&searchId=889fe482d45f00bfb717e3d62dbcbebf&searchtype=0
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/11241069
See http://cameratrap.mywild.co.za/2017/02/the-grey-buck-of-paarl.html
http://www.ultimateungulate.com/Artiodactyla/Raphicerus_campestrisFull.html
The following photo-sequence nicely shows the importance of GLOSS in the adaptive colouration of Raphicerus campestris campestris:
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/11112730.
The following hints at the presence of a pedal flag in Oreotragus:
https://stock.adobe.com/search?k=dikdik&asset_id=527216176
BUCCAL SEMET IN SYLVICAPRA GRIMMIA HINDEI/NYANSAE
https://www.alamy.com/common-duiker-aka-bush-duiker-sylvicapra-grimmia-image328270362.html
for comparison with Raphicerus campestris:
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steenbok-aka-steinbuck-steinbok-female-140509576
Evidence that the buttock flag is flared during distress, when the animal is snared:
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/138467802
Capreolus capreolus
https://www.shutterstock.com/it/image-photo/roedeer-roe-jumping-hide-forest-winter-1317422654
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