What Wild Animals Can Be Found In Savannah?
Savanna is a habitat made up mostly of grassland, scattered with trees and shrubs, located mainly in the lower 48 states of the United States. Savannahs have adapted to a wide range of climates, with some species found in cold and wet regions, while others dwell in hot and dry conditions.Savannah wildlife is abundant and varied. Here, you’ll find mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and more all living together in this remarkable habitat. From majestic giraffes to curious hedgehogs, every species has a unique story. In this article, we’ll take a look at all the incredible wild animals of savanna.
Warm-blooded Mammals of Savannah
Warm-blooded mammals have the ability to regulate their body heat to some degree. Here are some of the most popular and interesting mammalian species you can find in a savanna ecosystem:
- Giraffes – These gentle giants are probably the first animals that come to mind when you think of savanna wildlife. The tallest of all land-dwelling mammal species, giraffes can reach up to 18 feet in height. These animals have long necks that allow them to browse leaves from tall trees and long legs for avoiding predators. Plus, their beautiful patterned coats make them a unique sight.
- Zebras – Zebras are known for their iconic stripes, which act as camouflage in open savanna habitats. Like their equid cousins the horse and donkey, zebras belong to the genus “Equus”. Zebras are social creatures, often forming herds and bonding to one another through grooming and vocalizations.
- Wildebeest – Also known as gnus or antelopes, wildebeests are large mammals found in savannas around the world. These animals are herbivores and travel in large herds. Herds can contain thousands of wildebeests, making them one of the most impressive sights in African savannas.
- Buffalo – Wild buffalo (or “bison”) are large hoofed mammals that once roamed in vast numbers across North American prairies. Today, they can still be found in some areas, including some savannas. Wild buffalo are powerful creatures with strong builds, dark coats, and horns.
- Cheetahs – Adapted for high speed hunting, cheetahs are one of nature’s fastest animals. These cats rely on both vision and hearing to track down their prey in open grasslands, and then use their incredible speed to catch it. Cheetahs can reach speeds up to 70 miles per hour.
- Elephants – Yes, elephants too frequent certain savannas around the world. While larger-than-life elephants are usually associated with rainforest habitats or woodlands, they’re actually quite versatile animals that can survive in a variety of habitats.
- Hedgehogs – These small mammals make for a unique sight in savannas around the world. Hedgehogs are nocturnal creatures with spiny backs and short tails. They move slowly and collect leaves, berries and other food with their noses.
Cold-blooded Reptiles and Amphibians of Savannah
Reptiles and amphibians are two different classifications of creatures with unique characteristics that make them well-suited for life in the savanna. Here’s a list of some of the most common species:
- Tortoises – Tortoises are slow-moving reptiles with protective shells that help them defend against predators. Some species of tortoise prefer hotter regions just near the edge of the desert whereas others live further inland in the savanna.
- Lizards – Lizards may be small but they are tough enough to survive even the toughest savanna environments. Most species of lizards in Savannah prey on small insects such as bugs and spiders.
- Frogs – Frogs are amphibians that inhabit both wet and dry regions. Many species of frogs live in the savanna, including tree frogs, burrowing frogs and water frogs.
- Geckos – These lizards are common across many parts of the world but can be found in abundance on Savannahs too. Geckos feed mostly on small insects, living under rocks and hiding away from predators.
- Crocodiles – Some species of crocodiles live in water while others occupy land. In Savannahs, one may encounter estuarine crocodiles which inhabit estuarine systems near bodies of freshwater such as rivers or lakes.
Avian Wildlife of Savannah
Birds are an important part of any ecosystem and Savannahs are no exception. Here’s a list of some of the most iconic avian species that call these grasslands home:
- Cranes – These large, tall birds are typically first spotted by their impressive wingspan and loud callings. Cranes inhabit open wetlands and hunt for small animals such as insects or fish.
- Kestrels – Kestrels are small falcons that occupy similar habitats as hawks and eagles. You can easily spot these birds darting between patches of savanna grass as they hunt for prey.
- Finches – Finches are small passerine birds that feed on small insects such as grasshoppers or beetles. You can find these birds typically flocking together and flying from tree to tree in search for food.
- Owls
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