Travellers should never underestimate just how much they can see when on a Kruger Park safari.
A wild destination covering most of the Northeastern corner of South Africa, the Kruger National Park is a monument to the commitment that South Africans have made towards conservation.
Established in the late 1800s, the Kruger has become a bastion for a variety of indigenous African plant and wildlife, and as home to some of the world’s most endangered animals, when you go on a Kruger Park safari here, you get to not only spot rare animals, but you will also play a small role in their protection.
Much of the conservation fees go towards the upkeep of the park and to pay the staff who so diligently take care of the animals. But no matter how well the fences are maintained, and regardless of the tireless efforts spent patrolling and chasing out no-gooders, some animals in the park are now listed as endangered.
The number 1 reason for these animals being under threat is due to humans.
Towns and villages have sprouted up all around the park, and increasingly these settlements are wreaking havoc on the animals within. Poaching remains the single biggest concern but so is the issue of people settling right on park boundaries.
As the park is huge, and staff can only do so much in terms of patrolling fences. That said, the Kruger is serious about its conservation efforts and you, the intrepid Kruger Park safari traveller get to reap the rewards (you and the animals of course).
The Kruger’s Most Endangered Species
If you’ve done some reading up about conservation in the Kruger, you’ve more than likely heard about some of these animals before.
Every nature-conscious traveller knows that rhinos of all kinds are at risk of becoming extinct within our lifetime and that the lion populations in Africa as a whole have dwindled to some 23 000 left in the wild (most of which are in the Kruger).
In this list, we’ve included a few more animals you might not know are endangered, as well as ways to see them and ways to get involved in the fight for their survival.
1. African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus)
The African Wild Dog is one of the most intriguing and misunderstood carnivores in Africa, and despite breeding programmes, there are less than 7 000 of them left on the entire continent!
While it looks a lot like a domesticated dog, the African Wild Dog has only four toes per foot and a highly specialised tooth structure, perfectly suited for its carnivorous diet.
Wild Dogs are easily identified by their unique, multi-colour coat and large, rounded ears, and with their mottled fur pattern of black, brown, yellow, and white, they blend into the bush with ease.
Habitat within the Kruger Park
Within the endless landscape of the Kruger National Park, these elusive predators can often be found in the denser bushveld and out on the open plains where they chase down impalas and other medium-sized prey with relentless stamina and with the help of their packs.
Best times and places to spot them
The best time to spot these fascinating creatures is during the cooler hours of early morning or late in the afternoon, particularly in the park’s central and northern regions.
Reasons for endangerment
Despite their prowess, African Wild Dogs are sadly endangered due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and diseases such as rabies and distemper.
Conservation efforts
Conservation efforts in the Kruger Park include anti-poaching measures and vaccination campaigns to protect these animals from disease, ensuring that these painted wolves continue to roam the African wilderness and delight tourists.
If you are interested in getting involved in initiatives to save the Wild Dog, check these out:
- https://www.painteddog.org/
- https://www.awf.org/wildlife-conservation/african-wild-dog
- https://www.awdconservancy.org/
2. Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)
The Cheetah is the epitome of grace and speed, renowned for being the fastest land animal on Earth. Seeing them in the Kruger is one of the most exhilarating experiences, especially as they are not the most common, everyday sighting.
This elegant big cat is built for speed. It has a lightweight frame, long limbs, and a deep chest housing a large heart and lungs, making it the perfect machine for moving across the plains, and chasing down antelope.
Its spotted coat, while beautiful to look at, and an iconic pattern on the catwalk, provides its all-important camouflage allowing it to dart silently through the grassy savannahs where it resides.
Habitat within the Kruger Park
Preferring those wide open landscapes, cheetahs in the Kruger Park are often found in regions with ample prey such as impalas.
Best times and places to spot them
To catch a glimpse of a Cheetah, visitors should focus on areas like the open grasslands of the central and southern parts of the Kruger, especially during the early mornings or late afternoons when these predators are most active.
Reasons for endangerment
Unfortunately, the Cheetah population is declining due to habitat loss, human encroachment, and competition with larger predators like lions and hyenas.
Conservation efforts
Conservation measures in the Kruger include habitat management and anti-poaching efforts, alongside breeding programmes aimed at bolstering the cheetah population within the park.
If you are interested in getting involved in initiatives to save the Cheetah, check these out:
- https://cheetah.org/
- https://dewildt.co.za/
- https://www.cheetahexperience.com/
3. Black Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis)
The Black Rhinoceros is a formidable yet immensely endangered giant of the African savannah.
With its two horns and a prehensile upper lip, which it uses to grasp foliage, this rhino species is smaller but far more aggressive than its white counterpart. In the wild, there are only around 6 195 Black Rhinos left, compared to 15 942 white rhinos, which are also under threat of extinction. Both the Black and the White Rhino are members of the Big 5.
Typically, Black Rhinos prefer dense, thorny bush areas, which provide both food and cover from predators, but they can be spotted in other places too.
Habitat within the Kruger Park
In the Kruger National Park, their distribution is sporadic and often concentrated in areas with abundant shrubs and low trees.
Best times and places to spot them
To maximise your chances of spotting a Black Rhino, you should explore the park’s more remote and less travelled paths, particularly in the early morning or late evening.
Reasons for endangerment
Despite their size and strength, Black Rhinos face severe threats from poaching driven by the demand for their horns. Poor community members living close to the park are often enticed by the promise of money from poaching syndicates and do their dirty work in areas of the park where rangers have a hard time getting to. The punishment in South Africa for poaching rhinos is severe.
Conservation efforts
The Kruger’s anti-poaching initiatives are tough and well-known and they include an increase in ranger patrols, aerial surveillance, and community engagement programmes aimed at reducing the demand for rhino horn and teaching the importance of protecting these majestic creatures. The park has in recent years even called on the assistance of the South African National Defence Force, to help keep poachers at bay.
If you are interested in getting involved in initiatives to save the Black Rhino, check these out:
- https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/black-rhino
- https://www.savetherhino.org/programmes/save-the-rhino-trust/
- https://careforwild.co.za/
4. Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri)
The Southern Ground Hornbill is a striking bird that is widely photographed. This bird is rather large and its red facial skin makes it instantly recognisable.
Unlike many of its avian relatives, this Hornbill spends most of its time on the ground, foraging for small animals, insects, and fruit. Their loud, booming calls can be heard echoing through the savannahs at dawn.
Habitat within the Kruger Park
Within the Kruger National Park, these Hornbills are typically found in open grasslands and woodland edges, and they will often move around in family groups.
Best times and places to spot them
Birdwatchers can increase their chances of spotting these magnificent birds by focusing on areas with large, mature trees, particularly in the park’s central and southern regions.
Reasons for endangerment
Conservation efforts have become absolutely vital for the continuation of their species, as their numbers continue to dwindle due to habitat loss, secondary poisoning, electrician and monoculture farming.
Conservation efforts
Preservation efforts include habitat restoration, the installation of artificial nests, and public awareness campaigns to ensure the Southern Ground Hornbill is able to thrive in its natural habitat.
If you are interested in getting involved in initiatives to save the Southern Ground Hornbill, check these out:
- https://ground-hornbill.org.za/
- https://apnrgroundhornbillproject.com/
5. Pangolin (Smutsia temminckii)
The enigmatic Pangolin is a nocturnal creature covered in protective keratin scales, resembling a walking pinecone. This solitary and secretive animal is highly specialised, using its long, sticky tongue to capture ants and termites.
In the past 10 years, a staggering 1 million pangolins have been poached and today there are very few left in the wild.
Habitat within the Kruger Park
Pangolins prefer sandy soils and open woodlands where their prey is abundant. In the Kruger National Park, their elusive nature makes sightings rare, often reserved for the most patient and incredibly lucky visitors.
Best times and places to spot them
To increase the chances of spotting a Pangolin, visitors should consider joining guided night drives, where experienced rangers can lead the way.
Reasons for endangerment
Unfortunately, Pangolins are critically endangered due to a prolific illegal wildlife trade, driven by a high demand for their scales and meat. In countries like Vietnam and China, Pangolin meat is considered a delicacy.
Conservation efforts
Conservation strategies in the Kruger include anti-poaching initiatives, research programmes to better understand their ecology, and partnerships with local communities to reduce hunting pressures. All of these efforts are aimed at ensuring the survival of this remarkable species.
If you are interested in getting involved in initiatives to save the Pangolin, check these out:
- https://www.thepangolinproject.org/
- https://www.pangolin.africa/
- https://www.savepangolins.org/conservation
6. Lion (Panthera leo)
The Lion, a member of the Big 5, is often referred to as the king of the jungle, but in reality, it should be dubbed the king of the grasslands of Africa.
Although absolutely magnificent to see in their natural habitat, with their majestic manes and powerful build being such a memorable sight to see, it is the Lion’s social structure that is actually one of the most fascinating things about them.
Lions live in prides consisting of related females, their cubs, and a coalition of males. The females do a lot of the hunting (although males will hunt too), while the whole pride raises the cubs.
Sadly, there are only 23 000 lions left in the wild, and they are already extinct in 26 African countries.
Habitat within the Kruger Park
The Kruger National Park is home to a significant population of lions, with territories spread across its landscape. As long as there is prey nearby, the lion will make a home.
Best times and places to spot them
The best locations for Lion sightings are the central and southern regions, where large prey animals are abundant. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for viewing, as Lions are most active during these cooler periods. During the winter season, Lions can also be seen close to water spots, following their prey. And after having their feast, it is not uncommon to drive past a pride, lounging about under trees, hiding from the midday sun.
Reasons for endangerment
Despite their dominance, Lions face challenges such as habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and diseases.
Conservation efforts
Conservation measures in the Kruger include habitat management, anti-poaching efforts, and ongoing research projects to monitor lion health and behaviour, ensuring the roar of the Lion continues to resonate through the African wilderness.
If you are interested in getting involved in initiatives to save the Lion, check these out:
- https://lionrecoveryfund.org/
- https://www.conservationafrica.net/our-projects/lion-conservation-projects
- https://www.lionconservationfund.org/
7. Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotos)
The Lappet-faced Vulture is a formidable scavenger with a wingspan that commands the skies. Distinguished by its bald head, wrinkled skin, and powerful beak, this vulture might not be the most attractive of birds but they play a hugely important role in the ecosystem by cleaning up the carrion left behind by predators like lions.
Habitat within the Kruger Park
In the Kruger National Park, you will see the Lappet-faced Vulture just about all over, out on savannahs and in open woodlands, and you will catch sight of them soaring high above the ground in search of food.
Best times and places to spot them
Viewing these majestic birds often requires patience and a good vantage point near recent kills, where they congregate with other scavengers.
Reasons for endangerment
These vultures face numerous threats, including poisoning, habitat loss, and declining food availability.
Conservation efforts
Conservation actions in the Kruger involve monitoring vulture populations, protecting nesting sites, and implementing breeding programmes to ensure the survival of this vital species, which helps maintain the health of the ecosystem.
If you are interested in getting involved in initiatives to save the Lappet-faced Vulture, check these out:
- https://peregrinefund.org/explore-raptors-species/vultures/lappet-faced-vulture
- https://www.hawk-conservancy.org/protecting-and-conserving-lappet-faced-vulture-nests/
8. White-backed Vulture (Gyps africanus)
The White-backed Vulture is easily identified by its distinctive white back and contrasting dark feathers. These vultures are social creatures, and you will most often see them in large groups, gathered around carcasses, enjoying the feast!
Habitat within the Kruger Park
In the Kruger National Park, they are distributed across the landscape, favouring areas where large herbivores are plentiful.
Best times and places to spot them
To observe these vultures, visitors should look for them in open savannahs and near waterholes where animals frequently gather. These areas are generally where kills take place, which is what attracts them.
Reasons for endangerment
Unfortunately, they are critically endangered due to poisoning, habitat loss, and decreasing food sources.
Conservation efforts
Conservation efforts include establishing vulture restaurants(which are safe feeding sites that provide uncontaminated food) and rigorous monitoring programmes to track population health and breeding success, ensuring these scavengers continue their important cleanup role in the ecosystem.
If you are interested in getting involved in initiatives to save the White-backed Vulture, check this link out:
- https://peregrinefund.org/explore-raptors-species/vultures/white-backed-vulture
9. Temminck’s Courser (Cursorius temminckii)
Temminck’s Courser is a small, elegant bird known for its distinctive appearance and behaviours. With a slender build, long legs, and striking plumage featuring a white eyebrow stripe, this bird is a delight for birdwatchers.
Habitat within the Kruger Park
Preferring dry, open habitats, Temminck’s Courser can be found in sandy areas and short grasslands within the Kruger National Park. These birds are ground dwellers, and will often be spotted running swiftly across the terrain in search of insects.
Reasons for endangerment
The conservation status of this species is of concern due to habitat degradation and human activities.
Best times and places to spot them
Birdwatching enthusiasts can improve their chances of spotting Temminck’s Courser by focusing on the park’s more arid regions during early mornings when the birds are most active.
Conservation efforts
Initiatives to protect their habitat include controlled burns and habitat restoration projects, efforts which go towards ensuring that these unique birds continue to thrive in their natural environment.
10. Blue Crane (Anthropoides paradiseus)
The Blue Crane is South Africa’s national bird, and it is known for its stately presence and elegant appearance. Standing tall with a slate-grey plumage and long, flowing wing feathers, this crane exudes grace.
Habitat within the Kruger Park
Within the Kruger National Park, they can be found in open grasslands and wetlands, often seen in pairs or small groups.
Best times and places to spot them
To observe these magnificent birds, be sure to venture to the park’s wetter areas, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon when the cranes are most active.
Reasons for endangerment
Threats to their survival include habitat loss, agricultural expansion, and human disturbance.
Conservation efforts
Conservation efforts in the Kruger involve habitat protection, community engagement programmes, and the intense monitoring of Crane populations to ensure that this symbol of beauty continues to be a magnificent presence in the South African wilderness.