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What Animals Can Be Seen on A Serengeti Safari?

Written By

African Scenic Safaris
04/01/2024
Safaris
Serengeti Safari

Begin your journey into the wild with a Serengeti Safari, where every path reveals the wonders of Africa’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. The Serengeti, known for its vast landscapes and the famous wildebeest migration, is home to an incredible variety of Animals in Serengeti.

Here, you can see the majestic Big Five – lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes – and many more creatures like cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, and zebras. With almost 90 different species of mammals and countless birds, the Serengeti in Tanzania offers a wildlife experience like no other, full of surprises and relishing moments.

The Big Five Icons of the African Wilderness

Serengeti Big Five

Let’s take a look at Africa’s Big Five that embrace Serengeti’s endless plains with their dominance.

Lions- The King of the Jungle

In the vast plains of the Serengeti, lions reign supreme. These majestic cats, symbols of strength and courage, are often found resting in the shade or overseeing their territory atop a kopje. Witnessing a lion’s pride in their natural habitat, especially during a hunt, is a highlight of any Serengeti Safari.

Leopards- Elusive Beauty

Leopards, with their exquisite spotted coats and graceful demeanour, are a rare sight, adding to their charm. The Serengeti’s trees often host these solitary predators, lounging on branches or nurturing their young. Spotting a leopard, especially a mother with cubs, is a treasured moment on a Serengeti Safari Tour.

Elephants-Gentle Giants

The African elephant, the largest land mammal, is a magnificent sight. These gentle giants, known for their intelligence and strong family bonds, roam the Serengeti in herds, led by a matriarch. Observing their social interactions on Serengeti Vacation provides a deeper understanding of these complex creatures.

Buffaloes-The Stoic Beasts

Buffaloes, with their formidable horns and herding instinct, are a symbol of communal strength. They are often seen grazing in the grasslands or cooling off in muddy pools. A buffalo herd on the move, with its young and protectors, is a testament to the resilience of Serengeti Animals.

Rhinoceros-The Prehistoric Survivors

Rhinoceros, with their armour-like skin and majestic horns, are a rare sight, making them a prized sighting on any Big Five Safari in Tanzania. The Serengeti’s efforts in conservation have allowed these prehistoric creatures a sanctuary to thrive.

Nature’s most spectacular show – the Great Migration

Great Wildebeest Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a natural marvel. Over two million wildebeests, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, set out on their annual journey across the Serengeti. This migration is driven by the search for fresh grazing lands and water, creating a dynamic wildlife spectacle.

The migration also attracts predators. Lions, hyenas, and crocodiles lie in wait, turning the migration into a struggle for survival. Witnessing a river crossing, where herds brave crocodile-infested waters, is an extremely moving and exhilarating experience.

Beyond the Big Five- Serengeti’s Diverse Habitants

Besides being home to the Big Five, Serengeti is also a sanctuary for a multitude of other fascinating mammals which can be explored on Tanzania Safari Packages. From nocturnal animals to agile primates and resilient herbivores the Serengeti offers a captivating glimpse into the diversity of African wildlife.

AnimalsDescriptionHabitat in Serengeti
AardvarkNocturnal, burrowing mammals, feeding primarily on ants and termites.Grasslands, woodlands
AardwolfInsectivorous and solitary, resembling a small hyena with distinctive stripes.Open grassy plains
Antelope (Various)Including species like Dik-Dik, Klipspringer, and Oribi, showcasing diversity in size and behaviour.Arid regions, scrublands
Kirk’s Dik-DikSmall and monogamous antelopes are known for their shy nature and distinct facial markings.Dry savannas, shrublands
KlipspringerSmall antelopes adapted to rocky terrains, known for their ‘tip-toe’ stance.Rocky outcrops, grasslands
Olive BaboonSocial primates live in large troops, adaptable to various habitats.Savannahs, steppes, forests
OribiSlender antelopes, prefer open grasslands and are known for their gentle behaviour.Grasslands, fire-maintained areas
PangolinUnique, scale-covered mammals, primarily feed on ants and termites.Woodlands, grasslands
Side-Striped JackalOmnivorous canids with distinct markings, less predatory than other jackals.Woodlands, scrublands
Slender MongooseSolitary and adaptable carnivores, with a varied diet including insects and small vertebrates.Savannahs, woodlands
Spotted HyenaSocial and successful predators are known for their complex social structure and scavenging habits.Grasslands, woodlands
Spring HareNocturnal and hopping rodents feed mainly on grasses and plants.Grasslands, near burrows
WarthogCommon and distinctive wild pigs, known for their erect tails and foraging habits.Savannahs, semi-arid areas
WaterbuckLarge antelopes with shaggy coats are typically found near water sources.Near water, grasslands
WildebeestKey players in the Great Migration, these antelopes are known for their herding behaviour and resilience.Open woodlands, grassy plains

Avian Wonders of Serengeti

The Serengeti National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. With over 500 bird species, the park offers a spectacular avian display, making it a prime location for Tanzania Birding Safaris. From majestic raptors soaring in the sky to colourful songbirds in the bush, the Serengeti’s birdlife is as diverse as it is fascinating.

Bird SpeciesHighlightsCommon Habitats in Serengeti
Abdim’s StorkSmall stork is known for its grey legs and red facial skin, often seen around water.Wetlands, grassy plains
African DarterSlim, cormorant-like bird, adept at spearing fish in water bodies.Lakes, rivers
African Grey HornbillSmaller hornbill species, feeding on insects and fruits, are commonly found in trees.Woodlands, savannahs
African Fish EagleMajestic eagle, recognizable by its white head and powerful build, hunting near water.Near water bodies
African Harrier HawkMedium-sized raptor with pale grey colouring and a distinctive hunting style.Woodlands, urban areas
African OpenbillStork species feeding on aquatic snails, notable for its uniquely shaped bill.Wetlands, marshes
African SpoonbillA wading bird with a distinctive spoon-shaped bill feeds on aquatic organisms.Wetlands, lakes
African White-backed VultureThe most common large vulture in Africa is a key player in the ecosystem.Across the park
Bateleur EagleColourful, medium-sized eagle with a short tail, often seen gliding over open areas.Open woodlands, savannahs
Black-chested Snake EagleSpecialized raptor preying on reptiles, identifiable by its dark chest.Open lands, savannahs
Black-headed HeronLarge wading bird, predominantly grey with a powerful bill, common in grasslands.Grasslands, wetlands
Black-winged KiteSmall, diurnal bird of prey, often seen hovering in open grasslands.Grasslands, open fields
Coqui FrancolinGround-dwelling bird, widespread across southern Africa, is known for its distinct call.Grasslands, savannahs
Egyptian GooseCommon waterfowl, part of the shelduck family, are often seen in pairs.Lakes, rivers

Why Choose African Scenic Safaris?

In the vast expanses of Tanzania, each Serengeti Safari unfolds a unique story.  It reveals the majesty of the Animals in Serengeti. This Tanzania Safari Experience goes beyond witnessing the great wildebeest migration or observing live predation; it’s about embracing the essence of the wild.

Eager to witness these natural wonders for yourself? Join African Scenic Safaris on a wild trip to the Serengeti. Book your safari today and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of Tanzania’s most famous national park.

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