Hyracoidea, commonly known as hyraxes, are small, herbivorous mammals found primarily in Africa and the Middle East. They belong to the order Hyracoidea and are closely related to elephants and manatees, despite their small size and rodent-like appearance. Hyraxes typically inhabit rocky terrains and are known for their social behavior, often living in groups. These animals have a unique set of adaptations, including specialized feet for climbing and a diet that consists mainly of grasses, leaves, and fruits. Hyraxes are also notable for their vocalizations, which they use to communicate with one another. Their evolutionary history dates back millions of years, making them an interesting subject of study in the field of mammalogy.