Big Five Animals of Kenya
Among the most famous creatures in Kenya are the big five and these stand out as the most sought after by safari goers .
The term big five was used to refer to the most difficult animals to hunt on foot but now it is used for game viewing by safari goers .
One of the most fascinating big five animals is the African Lion also know as the King of the Jungle . Lions reside in the Savannah grasslands mostly because of the existence of there prey . They are considered one of the most social big five animals because they live in groups called Prides . The Masai Mara currently is one of the best National parks in Kenya to spot these creatures and their sound epitomizes the African wilderness.
More to that is the Leopard another sought after creature in the African wilderness. The animal is known for its stealth and elusive nature . These animals are one of the most difficult to spot among the big five because they are solitary and are primary nocturnal creatures. These animals are also predators mostly hunting herbivores and drag their prey up the trees to avoid scavengers like hyenas . Leopards are mostly spotted in Sumbaru National reserve and Tsavo National Park.
Another unique and the largest Big five animal is the African Elephant. Elephants are very intelligent and social creatures that live matriarchal herds led by oldest females.
Elephants are important in the wilderness because they shape the environment through dispersing seeds and uprooting trees .
Despite their importance they are a major target for ivory by poachers however conservation efforts are on going to protect them .
These creatures can be mostly spotted in Amboseli National Park.
Often underestimated is the African Buffalo and is one of the most dangerous animals in the big five . These are known for their unpredictable temper and formidable strength and can attack if threatened. They are social animals that live in large herds for protection. Buffaloes have few predators unlike lions however even a lion rarely attacks them because of their strength.
They are usually found in Lake Nakuru and Meru National parks .
Lastly the Rhinoceros in particular the black and white rhino is the most endangered among the big five . Kenya is one of the countries that have remained with the largest populations of these creatures and Ol Pejeta conservancy and Lewa Wildlife Sanctuary are leading conservation efforts . The black rhino is more smaller and aggressive than the white rhino which is named for its wide mouth .
These animals are a target for poachers because they are believed to have medical properties in their horns however anti poaching measures such as armed rangers are in place to protect them .
In conclusion, encountering these great creatures in the untamed landscape of Kenya is an experience that stays with you forever.
