What do elephants and hyraxes have in common? Science reveals a stunning truth
Published on: May 29, 2026, 3:14 p.m. | Source: Times of India
At first glance, elephants and hyraxes seem to have absolutely nothing in common. One is the largest land animal on Earth, capable of weighing several tons, while the other is a small, rabbit-like mammal that quietly lives among rocky cliffs in Africa and the Middle East. For decades, naturalists unsuccessfully tried to establish a taxonomic position for hyraxes. It was believed that these animals belonged to the rodent family due to their appearance. Modern research revealed one of the most intriguing discoveries made by evolution science. Elephants are genetically connected to hyraxes.
