Some of the popular animals in the Savanna are elephants, lions, and cheetahs. The savanna is a vast and varied landscape, home to an impressive array of animals. Here we take a look at fifteen of the most common creatures that make their homes in this unique environment.
1. Lions
Lions are the undisputed kings of the savanna. These powerful predators are at the top of the food chain and play a vital role in maintaining the ecosystem’s delicate balance. Lions typically live in family groups called “prides,” which can consist of up to 15 individuals.
2. Cheetahs
Cheetahs are the fastest land animals on Earth and can reach speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. These lithe and agile predators are perfectly adapted to life on the open plains. Cheetahs typically live solitary lives, only coming together to mate.
3. Elephants
Elephants are the largest land animals on the planet. These gentle giants can weigh up to six tons and stand up to three meters tall. Elephants are herbivores and eat a variety of plants, fruits, and vegetables. They live in groups called herds and can travel vast distances across the savanna.
4. Zebras
Zebras are one of the most iconic animals of the African plains. These striking creatures are easily recognizable by their distinctive black-and-white striped coats. Zebras live in herds and graze on grasses and other plants. They are often preyed on by lions and other predators.
5. Giraffes
Giraffes are the tallest animals on Earth, reaching heights of up to 18 feet. These gentle giants are herbivores and spend their days eating leaves and other vegetation. Giraffes are relatively shy creatures and live in small groups or alone.
6. Wildebeests
Wildebeests are large, antelope-like animals that are common on the African plains. These herbivores travel in huge herds and graze on grasses and other plants. Wildebeests are often preyed upon by lions and other predators.
7. Black Rhinoceros
The black rhinoceros is a massive, critically endangered animal that lives in the grassy plains. These animals are herbivores and eat a variety of plants. Black rhinos are often targeted by poachers for their horns, which are used in traditional Chinese medicine.
8. Aardvarks
Aardvarks are nocturnal animals that live in the burrows of other animals. These strange creatures are actually related to elephants and have long snouts that they use to sniff out termites. Aardvarks are solitary animals and only come together to mate.
9. Brown hyenas
Strandwolves, A.K.A. Brown Hyenas, are large, furry animals that live in the deserts of Africa. These animals are actually related to dogs and have a similar appearance. Brown hyenas are scavengers and eat a variety of things, including carrion, insects, and small animals.
10. Ostrich
The ostrich is the largest bird on the planet. These flightless birds can reach heights of up to 9 feet and weigh up to 254 pounds. Ostriches are herbivores and eat a variety of plants and fruits. They live in small groups and are often preyed upon by lions and other predators.
11. Savannah vulture
The savannah vulture is a large bird that lives in the grassy plains of Africa. These birds are scavengers and eat a variety of things, including carrion, insects, and small animals. Savannah vultures are solitary creatures.
12. Caracal
The caracal is a large, predatory cat that lives in the deserts of Africa. These animals are solitary hunters and prey on a variety of animals, including rodents, birds, and even reptiles. Caracals have long legs and powerful hindquarters that help them to leap great distances.
13. African wild dog
The African wild dog is a large, predatory animal that lives in the grassy plains of Africa. These animals travel in packs and hunt a variety of prey, including antelope, rodents, and even reptiles. African wild dogs are endangered due to habitat loss.
14. Leopard
Leopards are large, predatory cats that live in Africa and Asia. They are known for their distinctive spotted coats. Leopards prey on a wide range of animals, including animals much larger than themselves. Leopards are endangered due to habitat loss and trophy hunting.
15. Black Mamba
The black mamba is a large, venomous snake that lives in the deserts of Africa. The black mamba snake is feared all over the world because its venom is incredibly deadly. In fact, just one bite from this snake can kill a human being.
Conclusion
The animals that live in the savanna are some of the most interesting and unique creatures on Earth. These animals have evolved to be able to survive in the harsh conditions of the African plains. Many of these animals are preyed upon by multiple predators, but they have developed defenses that help them stay alive.
