The pelage is thick and coarse, with a few yellowish hairs scattered among the dark brown and blackish ones; pale individuals with cream-coloured coats have also been observed.

There is a dorsal scent gland up to 70 mm (2.8 in) long in the centre of the back, surrounded by a yellowish patch of fur.

In captivity they have been observed to climb up the edge of an open door with ease, as well as being able to quickly scale smooth tree trunks.

[4] Common predators of the western tree hyrax are eagles, leopards, hawks, servals, pythons, and golden cats, in addition to occasionally being hunted by humans for food.

A chimpanzee at Bossou was observed capturing a western tree hyrax, carrying it to her nest, and sleeping with and grooming it.