Wild Tanzania is rich, diverse and captivating in its range of wildlife. Let’s take a look at some of the lesser-known wildlife in Zanzibar to keep an eye out for during your safaris.
Red Colobus Monkey
The red colobus monkeys live in the main islands of the Zanzibar Archipelago. Arguably one of the most adorable of Zanzibar wildlife, these monkeys have little pot bellies, and appear dark to black in colour. The middle and lower back hues tend to be a mélange of red-brown and orange. Their hands, feet and faces are black while their lips and noses are pink hued. The red colobus lives in coastal thickets, coral-rag scrubs, mangrove swamps and even secondary forests. You can find these monkeys at even resort grounds at places like the Residence Zanzibar.
Abbott’s Duiker
These endangered creatures live in the Mount Kilimanjaro region, Eastern Arc Mountains as well as the Southern Highlands. They are nocturnal and look similar to antelope. Abbott’s Duiker loves to munch on leaves, fruit and flowers and moss. They are not above making a feast of small prey like frogs.
Klipspringer
The beautiful coat of klipspringer ranges from yellowish-grey to a pleasing reddish-brown. They blend in cleverly with the rocky habitat of the Lake Manyara National Park. These small deer-like creatures munch on flowers, saplings and fruit, though they seem to be partial to a plant called vellozia. Their succulent plant diet helps klipspringers to stay hydrated.
Crested Barbet
One of nature’s most glorious birds, crested barbets have yellow underbellies spotted with red and black and white wings. Their vibrant plumage and thick bill give these birds a distinctive appearance. These magnificent birds are rather protective of their territories, and love to chase away other interrupting birds.
