![]() d several more are near-endemics with a range that extends a small way into Namibia and/or Botswana.Ī Southern right whale breaks the water near the coastal town of Hermanus in the Western CapeĪvian variety is most significant in the southern summer (November-March) when several resident species assume a colorful breeding plumage and dozens of migrant species arrive from Europe or elsewhere in Africa. The national checklist comprises around 840 species and includes the world’s largest bird (ostrich) and what is reputedly its bulkiest flying species (kori bustard), along with a dazzling variety of bee-eaters, turacos, parrots, rollers, and waxbills. The iconic Mountain zebra in the Karoo National Park ![]() South Africa is a key bird-watching destination. The African wild dog is one of the most endangered predators in Africa, but also the most efficient hunters in the bush The clifftop town of Hermanus offers the world’s finest land-based whale-watching, while other aquatic wildlife attractions range from caged shark dives at Mossel Bay and turtle-nesting excursions in iSimangaliso to the penguin colony at Cape Town’s Boulders Beach and dolphins that frequently visit many of the country’s bays. Marine wildlife is a strong feature of South Africa. The Black wildebeest and Blesbok are associated mainly with grassy habitats in the Highveld.Īt the same time, the Cape mountain zebra and bontebok are fynbos-dwellers more-or-less confined to the Western Cape. Several large mammal species are endemic to South Africa. The country supports around two dozen species of antelope, ranging from the outsized eland and stately spiral-horned greater kudu to the gregarious Blue wildebeest and impala and arid-country specialists such as gemsbok, springbok, and the diminutive forest-dwelling Red and Blue duikers. Leopards are elusive and shy animals so spotting one on safari is a magical experience ![]() Other wildlife associated with these reserves includes African wild dogs, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, giraffes, zebra, warthogs, baboons, and Vervet monkeys. South Africa stands as the world’s most important stronghold for rhinos (around 90% of the global population of White rhinos and Black rhinos is concentrated there).Īt the same time, the private reserves bordering Kruger have few, if any, rivals when it comes to intimate leopard encounters. These premier reserves all support healthy lion, elephant, and buffalo populations. Still, other key safari destinations include iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, Madikwe, Pilanesberg, Addo Elephant National Park, and a variety of smaller and more exclusive private reserves. Foremost among these is the Kruger National Park and its abutting private reserves. Several Big Five reserves protect the more charismatic large mammals associated with the African savannah. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |