It is a land of diverse landscapes with rich biodiversity and home to many interesting animals in Zimbabwe that attracts nature enthusiasts and travelers from around the world. In the vast savannas and lush forests of African wildlife, one can encounter an impressive variety of interesting animals.
From the giant African elephant gracefully navigating the grasslands to the stealthy leopard prowling through the bush.
Zimbabwe has many natural habitats that allow its visitors to enjoy its endangered wildlife species. The list of Zimbabwe’s rarest wildlife species includes unique lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros.
Alongside these iconic species, the country hosts a large number of other wild animals, such as the striking zebra with its distinctive stripes and the playful vervet monkey adorning the treetops.
The Zambezi River courses through this land, attracting an ensemble of aquatic life, including the ferocious Nile crocodile and the slippery hippopotamus. Zimbabwe wildlife boasts an extensive avian population with vibrant species like the lilac-breasted roller and the African fish eagle.
In this blog, we have gathered interesting animals in Zimbabwe that add more knowledge and aware you about the Zimbabwe’s wildlife.
Explore 8 Interesting Animals in Zimbabwe’s Wildlife
Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park, situated in western Zimbabwe, stands as a live evidence to the country’s rich wildlife heritage. Spanning over 14,000 square kilometers, it’s the largest national park in Zimbabwe and is celebrated for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.
The park is famous for hosting one of the largest populations of African elephants on the continent, providing an awe-inspiring spectacle as these interesting animals roam the expansive savannas and mopane woodlands.
Alongside the elephants, Hwange is a haven for an impressive array of wildlife, including regal lions, elusive leopards, and formidable African buffalo.
Moreover, some rare and endangered species, such as the African-painted dog, also find refuge within its boundaries. Visitors to Hwange National Park can embark on exhilarating game drives, guided walks, and immersive safari experiences.
Giraffe
The giraffe is one of the most interesting animals in Zimbabwe, and that has a special place in zimbabwe wildlife.
As the world’s tallest land mammals, giraffes gracefully traverse the woodlands and savannas of Zimbabwe, their towering necks reaching for succulent leaves high in the trees. Two species of giraffes, the southern giraffe (Giraffa giraffa) and the Angolan giraffe (Giraffa angolensis), can be found here.
The southern giraffe is listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, highlighting the need for focused efforts to safeguard their populations.
Zambezi National Park
Zambezi National Park, situated in Zimbabwe, is a captivating haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This park’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests to open plains, shelter a remarkable array of animals.
Here, you can spot the regal African elephant, the agile impala, and the stately Cape buffalo. Lions, known as the kings of the savanna, roam these lands alongside leopards and cheetahs, masters of stealth.
Visitors to Zambezi National Park can enjoy exciting activities like going on safaris to see wild animals up close. One of the most exciting things about Zambezi National Park is that it’s near the Zambezi River. This river is a great place for fishing, where people can catch different types of fish.
Zambezi National Park also offers boat rides on the river, where you might see crocodiles and hippos lounging in the water.
Southern African Lion
The Southern African lion is one of the most captivating animals in Zimbabwe and can be spotted in many national parks of Zimbabwe. The diverse wildlife in Zimbabwe holds a special place in the heart of the country’s natural heritage.
These wild big cats are a symbol of strength and courage, embodying the untamed spirit of Africa. Found in the iconic Hwange National Park and other regions, Southern African lions are known for their golden coats and distinctive roars that resonate through the savannas.
Lions in Southern Africa are known for their social structure and cooperative hunting behavior. Living in groups called pride, these lions exhibit intricate social dynamics, with lionesses often collaborating to bring down prey.
Interestingly, male lions’ magnificent manes serve both as a sign of their dominance and as protection during territorial disputes. These big cats are skilled predators, hunting a variety of animals to prey on, like wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes, to sustain themselves and their pride.
Matobo National Park
Matobo National Park is located in Zimbabwe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its unique balance of stunning landscapes and intriguing wildlife.
This park is home to a variety of fascinating animals, including sturdy rhinos, mighty elephants, and agile leopards that roam freely in its rugged landscapes. Among the rocks and hills, you’ll find sly hyenas and lively baboons, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of life.
Visitors to Matobo National Park can enjoy thrilling game drives to spot these creatures in their native habitats or embark on wildlife safaris to discover the secrets of the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
Black Rhino
One of the most interesting animals in Zimbabwe’s diverse wildlife is the Black Rhino. These rhinos can be found in various regions of the country, including national parks like Matobo National Park.
These rhinos are known for their solitary and elusive nature, often preferring the cover of dense vegetation. Despite their size, they can move surprisingly quietly through the bush. The Black Rhino’s pointed lip is adapted for grasping leaves and twigs, making them browsers that feed on shrubs and bushes.
Sadly, the Black Rhino population is facing significant challenges due to habitat loss and poaching for their valuable horns.
White Rhino
The white rhinoceros, also known as the square-lipped rhinoceros, is a magnificent and powerful animal that can be found in various parts of Africa.
These remarkable creatures are the second-largest land animals on Earth, surpassed only by the African elephant. White rhinos are characterized by their hefty build, wide mouths adapted for grazing on grass, and distinctive skin folds that give them a unique appearance.
White rhinos are primarily grazers, feeding on grasses in the open savannas and grasslands where they reside. Their size and grazing habits differentiate them from the more solitary black rhinoceros, which are browsers that feed on shrubs and trees.
Mana Pools National Park
Mana Pools National Park, a captivating destination in Zimbabwe, boasts a stunning landscape teeming with wildlife. Here, visitors can encounter a diverse array of fascinating animals, including mighty elephants, graceful zebras, and playful baboons.
This park is known for its unique “walking safaris,” allowing visitors to explore nature on foot and get up close to animals in their natural habitat. The park’s name, “Mana Pools,” refers to the four large pools formed by the Zambezi River, which attract thirsty wildlife during the dry season.
African Elephant
One of the most captivating and iconic animals in Zimbabwe is the African elephant. African elephants are the largest land mammals on Earth, with males often reaching impressive sizes.
Their distinctive tusks, which are elongated incisor teeth, have unfortunately made them targets for illegal ivory trade. In Zimbabwe, these remarkable animals can be found in various protected areas, including Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park.
African Wild Dog
The African Wild Dog is undoubtedly one of the most captivating and interesting animals in Zimbabwe.
The African Wild Dog, scientifically known as Lycaon pictus, is a remarkable and endangered carnivore native to sub-Saharan Africa. The wild dog has a striking coat pattern of mottled black, white, and brown markings. This social and highly cooperative species is known for its exceptional hunting strategies.
African Wild Dogs live in packs, often comprised of up to 20 individuals, hunting together to catch their preferred prey of antelope and other small mammals.
On the IUCN red list, African wild dogs are marked as “Endangered species.” Sadly, African Wild Dogs face several threats, primarily due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and diseases like canine distemper and rabies.
Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these animals, as their populations have significantly decreased over the years.
Sable Antelope
The Sable Antelope, one of the most interesting animals in Zimbabwe, graces the landscapes of the country with its striking presence. This majestic antelope stands out for its sleek, dark coat and elegantly curved horns that sweep gracefully backward. These impressive horns not only serve as a means of defense but also make the Sable Antelope a remarkable sight in the wild.
Found in various regions of Zimbabwe, including national parks like Hwange and Matobo, the Sable Antelope thrives in open woodlands and grassy plains.
Despite their large size, Sable Antelopes possess remarkable agility, capable of navigating through their habitats with grace and poise.
While on wildlife safaris observing Sable Antelopes in their natural habitat is an unforgetable experience for visitors to Zimbabwe. The sight of these majestic creatures, often seen in small groups or herds, evokes a sense of wonder and appreciation for the country’s diverse and enchanting wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
What animals are unique in Zimbabwe?
Some of the animals that are particularly unique to Zimbabwe are Black Rhinoceros, Giant Sable Antelope, Chirinda Forest Toad, and Samango Monkey.
What are the top 5 animals in Zimbabwe?
The top 5 animals in Zimbabwe in African Elephant, African Lion, African Leopard, African Buffalo and African Wild Dog.
What is the main animals of Zimbabwe?
Some of the main and iconic animals of Zimbabwe include African Elephant, African Lion, Leopard, and Giraffe.
Does Zimbabwe have lions?
Yes, Zimbabwe is home to a significant population of lions (Panthera leo).
Hi, I’m Olivia Kepner and I am a zookeeper here in San Diego. Since I was a young girl I have always been fascinated by animals and species across the globe.
I used to beg my parents to take me to our local zoo every single weekend. Well, I say local – it was more like a two hour drive away. But they took me as much as they could, allowing me to fall in love with the animals again and again.
