By Wendy Rose Gould
Animals That Live in Africa
The African continent is known for its exciting array of exotic animals that graze naturally across
Africa's expansive terrain. In fact, the only time most other country's inhabitants get to see African animals (without visiting the continent) is in major zoos or vacation safari rides.
Mammals
One of the largest and most popular creatures that roam the African terrain today is the African elephant, a large mammal that weighs up to 6 tons once fully mature. Other popular African mammals include the sheetah, the fastest land mammal in the world; African lions; hippopotamus; warthogs; zebras; wildebeests; gorillas; lemurs; rhinoceros; and giraffes, the tallest of all mammals with an average height of 18 feet.
Birds
There are a number of beautiful birds in Africa, including the hildebrand and superb starlings, kingfisher, lilac-breasted roller, yellow-billed hornbills, world-famous pink flamingos, penguins, herons, grey-crowned cranes, ostriches (which lay the largest eggs in the world), vultures and the very colorful collared sunbird. This list just brushes the surface of Africa's expansive collection of exquisite winged animals.
Reptiles
African is home to a myriad reptiles, especially in the warmer, tropical climates. Some of the most famous reptiles that dwell in Africa include the crocodile (noted for its vicious teeth and volatile temperament), alligator and gecko (pale, yellow and almost transparent). Other reptiles in Africa are the lizard, tortoise and snake (including the very venomous Cobra).
About the Author:
Wendy Rose Gould is a professional journalist who has contributed to "Glamour" magazine and the Huffington Post, among other publications. After internships at the "Indianapolis Business Journal," "Kiwanis International" and "NUVO Newsweekly," she earned B.A. degrees in journalism and philosophy from Franklin College in 2008. Gould specializes in health, beauty and fashion topics.
Photo Credits:
biberta, www.morguefile.com
