The Big 5 African Animals
The Big Five animals are considered the flagship species of African wildlife, attracting tourists from around the world. They have the reputation of being some of the most dangerous animals to encounter in the African wild. The term “Big 5” was originally coined by hunter, however, today, the term is commonly used in the context of wildlife tourism and conservation.
The Big Five animals are:
The Big Five animals are:
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Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum and Diceros bicornisThe term "Big Five" includes both species of the African rhinoceros: the white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) and the black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis).
Rhinos are large, thick-skinned herbivores known for their distinctive horns and armoured appearance. They are critically endangered due to poaching. Their horns are highly prized for use in Asian medicines, even though there is no scientific proof that the horns actually have any healing properties. The horns are sold on the black market, fetching exorbitant prices, and poachers go to great lengths to acquire them. This has resulted in rampant poaching and the near extinction of these majestic animals. Rhinos are found across sub-Saharan Africa. |