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African Elephant (Loxodonta africana)
African Elephants are the largest land animals on Earth. They have big ears that help them stay cool and long trunks that they use to drink water, grab food, and even give themselves a shower. Elephants live in family groups led by a wise older female called a matriarch. They eat grasses, leaves, and fruits, and they help shape the savanna by knocking down trees and spreading seeds.

Lion (Panthera leo)
Lions are known as the "kings of the jungle," but they actually live in the savanna. They have a majestic mane around their heads, and they live in groups called prides. Lions are powerful hunters and work together to catch animals like zebras and antelopes. They spend a lot of time resting in the shade to avoid the heat.

Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis)
Giraffes are the tallest animals in the world, with long necks that help them reach leaves high up in the trees. They have beautiful spotted coats and long, blue tongues. Giraffes live in groups and are gentle, quiet animals. They can run very fast to escape from predators like lions.

Zebra (Equus quagga)
Zebras are famous for their black-and-white striped coats, which help them blend into the grass and confuse predators. They live in herds and are always on the move, looking for fresh grass to eat. Zebras are very social animals and often travel with other herbivores like wildebeests.

Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)
Cheetahs are the fastest land animals, capable of running at speeds up to 60 miles per hour. They have slim bodies, long legs, and distinctive black "tear marks" on their faces. Cheetahs use their incredible speed to catch prey like gazelles. They usually hunt during the day and rely on their camouflage to get close to their prey before sprinting.

rely on their camouflage to get close to their prey before sprinting.
Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus)
Wildebeests, also known as gnus, are large, antelope-like animals with long faces and curved horns. They are famous for their massive migrations, where thousands of them travel together across the savanna in search of fresh grass and water. Wildebeests are an important part of the savanna ecosystem and provide food for predators like lions and hyenas.

Hyena (Crocuta crocuta)
Hyenas are known for their distinctive laugh-like calls and strong jaws. They live in clans and are very social animals. Hyenas are excellent hunters and scavengers, often working together to take down prey or steal food from other predators. They have a tough reputation but are very important for keeping the savanna clean by eating carrion.

Ostrich (Struthio camelus)
Ostriches are the largest birds in the world and cannot fly, but they can run incredibly fast, up to 45 miles per hour. They have long necks, powerful legs, and large eyes that help them spot predators from far away. Ostriches live in groups and lay the largest eggs of any bird. They eat a variety of plants and insects.

Animals of the Savanna
Find out more about the animals that live on the
African Savanna
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