Environment
Fact-checked

At AllThingsNature, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Endangered African Animals?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

Some of the most endangered African animals are the chimpanzee, cheetah and African elephant. Many more species are under the threat of becoming extinct, such as the black rhinoceros and Ethiopian wolf. Several species of gazelle are endangered as well. The constantly changing terrain and environment of Africa's wild animal habitats are being threatened. This change is a fundamental aspect of why many wildlife species are on the brink of extinction.

The African lion population has diminished over the years, placing this species on the endangered African animals list. The most threatened 'big cat' of all endangered animals in Africa, however, is the cheetah. Since this animal is threatened by and often becomes easy prey for lions and hyenas, the numbers are dwindling fast. The cheetah is the fastest land mammal on Earth, but apparently not fast enough to escape the threat of human hunters, also responsible for the reduction in their population.

The chimpanzee is an endangered African animal.
The chimpanzee is an endangered African animal.

The African elephant is another African animal that faces potential extinction. They are hunted for the valuable ivory that is made from their tusks. Another reason for this animal becoming an endangered species is due to some cultures in certain areas of the continent actually eating the elephant's meat.

The chimpanzee is one of the endangered African animals of the central parts of the continent. They face a threat mainly due to their tropical forest habitats, which have been invaded by humans. Conservation groups have been struggling for many years to help preserve the chimpanzee population. Catching chimps in the wild and selling them as pets is illegal and another major concern for conservationists. Mass slaughtering of chimps for their meat in local areas of the continent is illegal and another reason for the potential threat of extinction.

Cheetahs are the fastest land mammals on Earth.
Cheetahs are the fastest land mammals on Earth.

Farmers in certain areas of Africa have set traps or put down poisons to eradicate a concern of leopards invading their property. This is a contributing factor for the African leopard becoming one of the common endangered African animals. Another equally crucial factor in placing this species on the endangered list is due to the hunting. Trappers kill leopards for their distinctive fur coats.

African wild dogs are notorious killers that can hunt down large prey, and because of this, farmers have taken to poisoning these animals in an effort to protect their land and livestock. This, in turn, contributes to the diminishing numbers of this species. Therefore, the African wild dog is on the endangered species list.

There are organizations dedicated to promoting public awareness of species of animals which are on the verge of extinction. Funding for conservation efforts is another effort to help this cause. Many projects may offer potential solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most endangered animals in Africa?

The African elephant, black rhino, and mountain gorilla are among the most critically endangered species on the continent. According to the IUCN Red List, the black rhino is classified as critically endangered, with fewer than 5,500 individuals remaining due to poaching and habitat loss.

Why is the African elephant considered endangered?

African elephants are classified as endangered due to a significant decline in their population, primarily because of poaching for ivory and habitat destruction. The Great Elephant Census reported a 30% decline in savanna elephant populations between 2007 and 2014, highlighting the urgency of conservation efforts.

What threats do endangered African animals face?

Endangered African animals face multiple threats including poaching, habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change. For instance, the cheetah, with fewer than 7,100 individuals left according to the Cheetah Conservation Fund, suffers from habitat fragmentation and conflict with farmers who view them as a threat to livestock.

How is climate change affecting endangered species in Africa?

Climate change exacerbates droughts, alters habitats, and disrupts food chains, directly impacting endangered species. For example, the critically endangered African wild dog is vulnerable to heat-induced stress and diseases that are spreading into new areas due to changing climates, affecting their already dwindling population.

What conservation efforts are in place to protect endangered African animals?

Conservation efforts include anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and community-based programs. Organizations like the African Wildlife Foundation work to establish protected areas and wildlife corridors. Additionally, international agreements like CITES regulate trade to protect species such as the critically endangered pangolin from illegal trafficking.

How can individuals contribute to the conservation of endangered African animals?

Individuals can contribute by supporting reputable conservation organizations, adopting sustainable living practices, and raising awareness about endangered species. Participating in eco-tourism, which provides economic incentives for local communities to protect wildlife, and avoiding products made from endangered species are practical ways to make a difference.

Discussion Comments

MrsPramm

@umbra21 - I don't know how much disasters contribute to African endangered animal lists, to be honest, compared with just general negligence and greed or mismanagement.

For a modern world we still do an awful lot of poaching for mystic cures like rhino horn and it seems like there is no end in sight.

Education seems to be the most important aspect of the change that is needed if Africa's animals are to survive.

umbra21

@Ana1234 - It is a tough situation, because you can hardly just ignore or forcibly relocate people in order to save endangered turtles or whatever.

I think the only real solution is to try not to get into that kind of situation in the first place and to make sure that infrastructure is being tended to, rather than just short term issues like food and water.

I guess the other thing is to make sure someone is looking out for the ecosystem in an area, as well as the people specifically, whenever there is a disaster.

Ana1234

I lived in West Africa for a while and I've got to say that one of the threats to endangered species over there is actually misplaced philanthropy. It's a difficult situation, because often what happens is that there is a drought or some other kind of disaster and the people who live there want to continue living there.

Other countries don't want them to starve so they get all kinds of food and water aid as well as medical aid, so they can continue to live on land that has also suffered from the disaster. And they end up putting too much pressure on the land to the point where it can't recover. I mean, if the people in the area are desperate for food and water they will also be competing with any endangered mammals or other species they live near. And people will generally win most competitions for survival.

So you end up ruining the ecosystem permanently. And that means not only that animals go extinct, but that people end up trapped in a cycle where they can no longer live without aid from others.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • The chimpanzee is an endangered African animal.
      By: jovica antoski
      The chimpanzee is an endangered African animal.
    • Cheetahs are the fastest land mammals on Earth.
      By: TanArt
      Cheetahs are the fastest land mammals on Earth.