Did you know nearly 20% of mammal species currently are endangered or threatened? Several factors have contributed to the decreasing populations of certain mammal species, including poaching and environmental factors.
With a rapid increase in endangered species in Africa, Hills of Africa Travel is dedicated to the conservation of these decreasing populations. We work closely with African reserves, parks, lodges, hotels, camps, and eco-tourism companies committed to the conservation of wildlife in Africa.
One of our most respected eco-tourism companies is Wilderness Safaris. Devoted to saving the environment, as well as the community, Wilderness Safaris created the Wilderness Safaris Wildlife Trust, which was established 20 years ago. According to the Wilderness Wildlife Trust website, the Trust “has supported a wide variety of wildlife management, research and education projects in southern Africa. These projects address the needs of existing wildlife populations, seek solutions to save endangered species, and provide education and training for local people and their communities.”
Some of the Wilderness Safaris’ ongoing and upcoming projects include: the Hwange Anti-Poaching Project, Botswana Rhino Ecology Project, Makuleke Large Mammal Reintroduction Project, and many other projects with similar causes.
Observing the endangered species of Africa in their natural environment on African safari tours is one of the most rewarding and rare experiences one could have because years from now, these creatures may be vanished from the earth forever.
Some endangered species in Africa include:
• The African Wild Ass: These gorgeous creatures are critically endangered largely because of habitat loss and hunting. They greatly resemble their relatives, the zebra and the horse.
• The African Wild Dog: The African wild dog population has dramatically decreased, primarily because they are shot by farmers. African wild dogs are killed because they are known to frequently feed on livestock. It is now illegal to kill an African wild dog.
• The Black Rhinoceros: Killed primarily by poachers for their horns, the black rhinoceros is critically endangered. Horns are frequently sold in the black market for more than $20,000 each!
• The Bonobo (Pygmy Chimpanzee): The bonobo is slightly smaller than the chimpanzee and can be found in the tropical and subtropical Central African forests. The main threats to their existence include habitat loss and hunting.
• The Cheetah: This creature, found in Sub-Saharan Africa, is the world’s fastest land animal and can run more than 60 mph. High infant mortality, decreased food sources, and habitat loss are large factors that have caused this species to be endangered.
• The Gorilla: Famous for being the largest primate, the gorilla is often killed for bush meat trade and trophy poaching. The gorilla’s habitat is also steadily decreasing from forest clearing. These stunning creatures can be seen on an African family safari or honeymoon safari in the hills of Uganda and Rwanda.
• The Mountain Zebra: Threatened by hunting and habitat loss, the mountain zebra is one of South Africa’s most endangered species. The few mountain zebras left can be found on mountainous slopes and plateaus, feeding on grass, bark, fruit, and leaves.
• Pygmy Hippopotamus: Found in the marshlands and forests of West Africa, the pygmy hippo is smaller than other species of hippo and lives mostly on land—unlike their hippo relatives who spend much of their time in the water. They are endangered due to hunting and habitat loss.
It’s a rare treat to witness these endangered species, as well as other endangered species on an African family safari or honeymoon safari. Their fate appears unfortunate, but with the support of eco-tourism companies, you can lend a hand to wildlife conservation in Africa. Let Hills of Africa Travel create for you a customized itinerary around your every preference, and experience the sheer magic of Africa. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802. We’re looking forward to making your dreams come true . . .
