Wildlife in Serengeti National Park - Tanzania
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Serengeti National Park, where wildlife thrives in its pristine natural habitat. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible diversity of animals, including some of Africa’s most dangerous animals, that call this vast landscape home.
Capturing the essence of wildlife viewing in the Serengeti is no small feat, given the abundance of life teeming within its borders. From Africa’s renowned Big Five to the massive herds of wildebeest and zebras, along with hundreds of bird species and charming smaller creatures like the dung beetle, there’s no shortage of wonders to explore.
Explore Photos of Serengeti National Park Wildlife
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We hope this information will convince you that Serengeti National Park is the ideal destination for your next adventure. If you have any questions or need more details about the various lodges, please fill in the contact form, and we’ll respond promptly. Alternatively, email us at safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com or james@ajkenyasafaris.com. You can also contact us via WhatsApp or phone at +254 748 258880.
The Big Five in Serengeti National Park
The Big Five epitomize the quintessential African safari adventure. Witnessing these majestic animals – the lion, rhino, leopard, African elephant, and Cape buffalo – in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. You might wonder why these particular animals are dubbed the Big Five. Interestingly, the term originated from big game hunters, not due to the animals’ size, but because they were the most challenging animals to hunt, often due to their fierce nature when threatened.
Fortunately, in the Serengeti, the Big Five are now only ‘hunted’ through photography. With the expertise of your guide and tracker, you’ll have the opportunity to check these iconic animals off your list. And remember, other wildlife, such as giraffes and hippos, are equally thrilling to encounter.
Lion
Reigning as the Lion King of the African savannah, observing a pride of lions in their natural environment wildlife in serengeti is an indelible memory. The Serengeti boasts some of the largest lion prides, making them relatively easy to spot. Lions are social creatures, living in prides where females do most of the hunting, while males often scavenge. Their favorite pastime? Lounging under a tree for up to 20 hours a day!
Leopard
With their elegant grace and stunning coats, leopards, also known as ‘The Prince of Darkness,’ are the most elusive of the Big Five. Masters of camouflage, leopards can remain unseen if they choose. In the Serengeti, you’re most likely to find them resting on a tree branch, particularly the large branches of the sausage tree. Always remember to look up, as a leopard might be enjoying a meal high on tree branch above, safe from lions and other predators.
Buffalo
Contrary to the lazy bush cow stereotype, the buffalo is one of Africa’s most dangerous animals, with few natural predators. While lions might target a calf, they risk the wrath of an angry herd seeking revenge. Buffalos require daily water, often congregating at waterholes. Despite their reputation for ill temper, especially when injured, their wise gaze – once described as ‘They look at you like you owe them money’ – makes them fascinating to observe. In the Serengeti, buffalo herds can number over 1,000, offering a thrilling spectacle.
African Elephant
As the world’s largest land animal, encountering an African elephant in its natural setting is awe-inspiring. These majestic giants roam the Serengeti plains and vanish into the woodlands. Female elephants form tight-knit clans with bonds lasting up to 50 years, while males leave the clan around age 12, either roaming alone or joining bachelor groups. Elephants frequently visit waterholes near lodges. Peaceful when undisturbed, an elephant can become formidable if threatened, weighing up to 7,000 kilos (equivalent to seven stacked cars) and trumpeting loudly.
Rhinoceros
The rhino, a prehistoric heavyweight, weighs around 2,500 kilos. Africa is home to two rhino species: the black and white rhino. Despite its name, the white rhino is gray, with the name ‘white’ stemming from a misinterpretation of the Dutch word ‘wijd’ (wide), referring to its broad lips. Tragically, rhinos are poached for their horns, valued more than gold. The white rhino’ population in the Serengeti ecosystem has plummeted from 1,000 to fewer than 70 individuals due to poaching. With females birthing only every five years, spotting a rhino in Serengeti National Park is a rare treat, but an experienced guide can increase your chances.
Other Wildlife in the Serengeti
The Serengeti’s rich biodiversity stems from its unique transition zone. The shift from fertile flat soils in the south to poorer hilly soils in the north creates diverse vegetation and habitats across the national park itself.
Riverine forests, a distinctive habitat for wildlife, are favored by hippos and crocodiles. Other common animals include the long-necked giraffes and various ungulates (hoofed animals) such as elands, zebras, topis, kongonis, impalas, and Grant’s gazelles. The Big Cats are easily spotted, with lions frequently seen on kills. Cheetahs thrive on the southeastern plains, while leopards are typically found lounging in large trees along the Seronera River. Hyenas are common, but African wild dogs, unfortunately, are rare. Explore more about other wildlife.
Always on the Fly: Migratory Birds in Serengeti National Park
Even if you’re not an avid birdwatcher, a visit to the Serengeti might change that. With over 500 bird species recorded, it’s a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Guides are eager to showcase the area’s unique species, such as the vibrant Fischer’s Lovebird and the impressive Kori bustard. The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem is one of Africa’s Endemic Bird Areas, hosting five bird species found nowhere else, with some confined to the Tanzanian portion. Learn more about birds in Serengeti.
Best Time for Bird Watching
Bird watching in the Serengeti is rewarding year-round, peaking from early November to late April. During this period, European and North African migratory birds are present, and resident species are nesting, making it easy to spot birds in their vibrant breeding plumage. Discover the best time to visit the Serengeti.
Small Talk: Insects in the Serengeti
For those wary of stinging and biting insects, there’s good news: the Serengeti has fewer of these pests compared to North America and Europe. However, the park boasts a remarkable diversity of other insects, playing crucial roles in the Serengeti ecosystem. Guides are enthusiastic about explaining the importance of these insects, including dung beetles, grasshoppers, termites, butterflies, moths, and ants among other predators.
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- +254 748 258880
- +254 748 258880
- safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com
- james@ajkenyasafaris.com