The taxonomic status of the Rwenzori red duiker is unsettled. When not considered a separate species (as here), it is most commonly listed as a subspecies of black-fronted duiker (Cephalophorus nigrifrons). However, various authors have considered it to be allied with the Natal red duiker (Cephalophorus natalensis), with the red-flanked duiker (Cephalophorus rufilatus), or with Ogilby's duiker (Cephalophorus ogilbyi) or the black duiker (Cephalophorus niger). There are relatively few confirmed specimens, and it is unclear whether differences between low-altitude and hagh-altitude specimens are due to the environment or represent different species of duikers.

Head and body length: Approximately 75 cm

Shoulder height: Approximately 45 cm

Tail length: Approximately 5-10 cm

Adult weight: Approximately 15 kg

The fur of this medium-sized duiker is soft, dense, and woolly. The overall coloration is a striking bright red without any speckling. The underparts are paler (the groin and insides of the front legs may be white). This duiker lacks a distinct stripe down the midline of the back. Over much of the body, the underfur is white, but in the dorsal midline the underfur is darker gray-brown, creating the suggestion of a stripe. The shoulders and forelimbs are darkened, with even darker brown markings on the limb joints; the lower hind legs are entirely blackish-brown. The hooves are described as long and slender, but (particularly the dewclaws) are notably shorter than the black-fronted duiker (Cephalophorus nigrifrons). The short, bushy tail is mostly black above and white below. A dark brown or black blaze is found on the forehead, and the chin is bright white. Both sexes have horns, which may grow 8-9 cm long.

Similar species

• Both the black-fronted duiker (Cephalophorus nigrifrons) and Natal red duiker (Cephalophorus natalensis), and their related forms, have similar reddish coloration without a dorsal stripe. The Rwenzori red duiker can be distinguished primarily based on range and the wooliness of its coat.

Nothing is known about the breeding or development of Rwenzori red duiker. Its reproductive biology is likely similar to that of other Cephalophorus duikers.

Little is known about the ecology of the Rwenzori red duiker. Casual observations suggest the species is active both night and day, and activity patterns may vary seasonally and be influenced by weather. The woolly coat of the species is believed to be an adaptation to the harsh montane environment, which includes low overnight temperatures, snow, and cold rain. Individuals are generally observed alone, except when a mother is accompanied by a juvenile, or a male is courting a female. Feeding may occur in open moorlands and on exposed scree slopes.

Family group: Solitary.

Diet: No direct observations of diet are available. Likely feeds on afroalpine herbs and lichens - fruiting trees, a staple of most duikers, are absent in the Rwenzori red duiker's habitat.

Main Predators: African golden cat and likely leopard.

The Rwenzori red duiker is endemic to (found only in) the Rwenzori Mountains of central Africa at elevations between 1,300 m (bamboo forest zone) and 4,200 m (the snowline). Key habitats include afroalpine moorland and woodlands dominated by tree heather; it has also been observed feeding around the margins of bogs. Its presence has only been confirmed in Uganda, but it is possible the species occurs on the western slopes of the range in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Its natural distribution is estimated to cover 3,000 square kilometers; confirmed localities are depicted in the map below.

IUCN Red List: Endangered (as Cephalophus nigrifrons rubidus, 2016)

CITES Listing: Not listed (2024)

Threats: Snaring and illegal hunting, habitat loss.

The estimated total population is likely fewer than 2,500 mature individuals.