They lack an externally visible tail, and have small, rounded ears. On their feet are flattened nails resembling hoofs.
Hyraxes are active and agile despite their heavy build.
They can run up steep, smooth surfaces with ease. The adult male is the leader and the most watchful, often keeping a lookout on a rock while others feed. If danger threatens he gives an alarm call. Hyraxes rely on speed to flee danger, using the tips of their expanded toes for running. Their nearest relatives, elephants, compensate for their slowness by size.