International Cheetah Day aims to raise awareness of the threats the cheetah faces. While they are famous as the fastest land mammals, they are vulnerable to larger predators, habitat loss, and poaching. International collaborations between governments, NGOs, and other organisations have contributed significantly to cheetah conservation in action.
The southern ground hornbill is a unique bird and a cultural icon. It is a big, black bird with red skin on its face and neck. Habitat loss, human-caused mortalities, and climate change threaten this distinctive bird. Several conservation initiatives are in place to protect these birds.
Vultures are famous for their part in our ecosystem, being the renowned clean-up crew of nature. They improve nutrient cycling, reduce the spread of diseases and control populations. Since they provide such vital services, it is frightening to realize that most vulture species are threatened. To increase awareness and appreciation of these valuable animals, we celebrate the diversity of vultures found in southern Africa.
Elephants are iconic figures of the African landscape. Their gigantic stature and unique physique make them a symbol of strength and power. Their intelligence, strong social bonds, and intricate behaviour evoke human admiration and sympathy. Their distinctive features make them a huge tourist attraction and a keystone species in their ecosystems.
African wild dogs are a sight to behold with their colourful coats and long, elegant legs, especially in large packs. Unfortunately, the wild dog is one of the most endangered carnivores on the continent. We find out what makes them unique and how conservation initiatives strive to protect them.
With their long necks, Giraffes can browse on leaves that other browsers can’t reach. Their strong hearts ensure that they can pump blood to their brain. Variations in genetics and coat patterns suggest that there might be more than one species. However, these fascinating creatures face threats, e.g. habitat loss, civil unrest, poaching, and ecological changes.
International Leopard Day celebrates this elusive, spotted member of the Big Five. While leopards are widespread and versatile in their selection of prey and habitat, their numbers are declining at an alarming rate due to several threats. Several conservation projects are researching, mitigating human-wildlife conflict, and surveying population numbers to protect leopards in their remaining habitat.
Have you ever seen a pangolin? These mysterious creatures are facing severe threats to their survival, including poaching, electric fences, climate change, habitat loss and road mortality. Learn more about them on World Pangolin Day, 18 February 2023.
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