This unusual little creature is said to be the elephant's closest living relative
Move over capybaras, there's a new tiny little critter we're totally obsessed with, and it has a rather surprising family tree.
While the hyrax might look like a guinea pig, the African Wildlife Foundation reports that the little cuties are one of the elephant's closest living relatives, along with the manatee.
SEE ALSO: Why do capybaras get along so well with literally every other species?
There are three main varieties in the hyrax family: the rock hyrax, tree hyrax and bush or yellow-spotted hyrax -- but we assure you they are all equally adorable.
Seriously though, just look at their little faces:
Hyraxes' toes and bone structure are similar to those of elephants, and have two large teeth that resemble tusks.
Take a peep at their impressive chompers:
The fascinating creatures live across Africa and the Middle East, and spend around 95 percent of their time sunbathing and relaxing, according to Wired. That sounds like the perfect life right?
Take a closer look at these cute animals:
They live in large colonies and the females stay with their family for life. The little ladies even form nursery groups, where mothers take turns tending to their young.
Overall, life is pretty sweet for these tiny precious critters, but the rapidly-growing human population in their natural habitats has made it more difficult for them to find mates, food and shelter.
So, be kind to these friendly little guys:
