Facts About Animals of East Africa

A visit to Africa exposes you to many interesting animals.

East Africa is home to some of the most exotic animals in the world. These animals have specific eating and living habits, and many of these animals can be seen at the local zoo.

Vervet Monkey

The Vervet is a grayish brown monkey that lives close to the water and feeds on fruit, flowers, and rodents. These monkeys live for up to 12 years, and have long legs and arms that help them to move quickly on the ground.

Wildebeest

Wildebeest are large antelopes that can weigh up to 600 pounds. They live on the grassy plains of East Africa, and are grazers, preferring to eat short grass.

Black Rhinoceros

The black rhinoceros is actually gray, and lives in the plains of East Africa as well. This species nearing extinction. Rhinos are likely to charge humans or objects that seem threatening, but often run into trees and rocks due to their poor vision.

Cheetah

The cheetah, another animal native to East Africa, is the fastest land animal--it can run up to 60 miles an hour. Cheetahs belong to the Felidae family, but can not roar like lions. Cheetahs only chase their prey for about 10 seconds, and feed on mammals like deer and wildebeest.

Giraffes

Giraffes are the tallest mammals in the world--their legs alone are six feet tall. They roam the grasslands of East Africa, and travel in small groups of about 6 or 7.

References

• Out of Africa: Wildebeest
• National Geographic Kids: Black Rhinoceros
• FOHN: Cheetah Facts and Pictures
• KJ Williams: Animals East Africa
• National Geographic: Giraffes