Zambia is home to a host of animal and bird life. There a few interesting animals that you will only find in Zambia. Some are more visible than others, but it is still worth knowing about them.
One such ‘less visible’ animal is Fukomys anselli – or Zambian Mole Rat. Although its name does give away a lot about this rare rodent species, it is definitely like no other animal. This strange looking mammal is on the IUCN’s red list, indicating there are very few left. They are endemic to Zambia and have actually been sighted near the Kafue River and within 100 kilometres (60 miles) around Lusaka.
The Thornicroft’s giraffe is another species you will only find in Zambia. They are endemic to the Luangwa Valley and are a distinct sub-species of giraffe. As they are biologically isolated from other giraffe, they are considered ecologically and potentially genetically unique. The main distinguishing factor of Thornicroft’s Giraffe is their colouring; look out for the dark-brown blotches in their necks, especially apparent in older males. Also, their knees lack blotches.
However, this giraffe is not the only ‘different’ animal in Zambia, the zebras are also unique. Crawshay’s Zebras’ markings differ from their relatives in that they have more black stripes, which are also noticeably thinner. Unlike other zebras, these lines stretch all the way down to their hooves, as well as under the belly, and they differ from the Burchell’s Zebra in that they don’t have shadow stripes.
Zambia’s open plains are also filled with a medium-sized antelope called the Lechwe. Black lechwe and the Kafue Flats, or brown, Lechwe are endemic to Zambia. These animals grow to about a meter high and can weigh anything between 60 and 128 kg (130lbs to 280lbs). Although they are slow runners, they can swim well in shoulder-deep water.
Next time you are on a safari in Zambia, whether walking, canoeing or on a House Boat – keep an eye out for these unique animals to tick of your species list.
