Kinds of Animals in Africa

The African continent is home to some of the most fascinating and beautiful animals on the planet. Unfortunately, much of the wildlife population has become endangered, due to hunters and loss of environmental resources. However, all is not lost; there are foundations and groups of people working tirelessly to protect and preserve Africa's wildlife population.

Elephants

The largest living mammals on earth, African elephants subsist on leaves, fruit, seed pods, grass, twigs and bark, and consume 30 to 50 gallons of water per day.

Giraffes

Giraffes live in loosely organized herds on the arid plains and in dense forested areas; their main source of food is the acacia tree.

Chimpanzees

Chimpanzees live in extremely social, loosely bound communities in the rain forests and wet savannas.

Gorillas

The earth's remaining gorillas all live within 4 national parks in groups of 2 to 40 individuals, headed by a single dominant male, the silverback.

Rhinoceroses

The black rhino lives in densely wooded areas, while the white rhino resides mainly on savannas near water holes and shade trees.

Lions

Lions live in family units, or prides, in the grassy plains and open woodlands. Lions are carnivores, preying on buffaloes, rhinos, hippos and giraffes.

Zebras

Zebras inhabit the grasslands and open woodlands, living in harems consisting of a group of females led by a single male, and grazing on young shoots and flowering grasses.

Resources

• African Wildlife Foundation
• Guide to African Wildlife