The Big Five are among the most iconic creatures, particularly for those who have experienced an African safari. Rhinoceroses, African buffalo, elephants, lions, and leopards make up this renowned group of wildlife. The term “Big Five” originated in the late 1800s during the African colonial period when these animals were deemed the most challenging to hunt.
These majestic creatures are primarily found in the southern and eastern parts of Africa. The name “Big Five” doesn’t stem from their size or weight; rather, it reflects the difficulty and challenge they posed to hunters, leading to them being considered prestigious trophies. While hunting of these animals was once common and raised concerns about their becoming endangered, ongoing programs and increased awareness for their protection are gradually making a positive impact.
WANN UND WO DIE BIG 5 ZU FINDEN SIND:
The Big Five animals are often encountered in some of the best African safari locations, such as Kruger National Park in South Africa, the Serengeti and Ngoro Ngoro Crater in Tanzania, and Etosha National Park and Waterberg Plateau Park in Namibia. Botswana Safari Tours from July to October offer excellent opportunities across Africa to witness these magnificent creatures..
Die Monate Juli und Oktober galten als ideal, weil der Regen ausblieb, so dass kleine Tümpel und Bäche ausgetrocknet waren und die Tiere sich in der Nähe der großen Flüsse aufhalten mussten, denn Büffel und Elefanten findet man in der Nähe von Botswana und Namibia. Das Gras war dort auch im Winter vertrocknet, so dass man sie leicht mit kleinem Grasland und der Stimme von trockenen Blättern sortieren kann.
ORTE, AN DENEN MAN DIE BIG 5 SEHEN KANN:
- Der Krüger-Nationalpark: With a high density of the Big Five and hundreds of other animals, Kruger National Park is a game-rich environment. Diverse species, including storks, elephants, and bush plains, call this park home.
- Ngoro Ngoro Crater: This location provides a classic experience for observing the Big Five within the unique setting of the caldera of an ancient volcano. The diverse range of habitats in the crater hosts over 30,000 animals, creating an unforgettable experience.
- Madikwe Private Game Reserve: An ideal place to spot the Big Five, this reserve is also known for its endangered African wild dogs. Additionally, it is a malaria-free safari region, offering a worry-free visit.
- Sabi Sand Wildreservat: Home to over 150 mammal species, including the Big Five, Sabi Sand is renowned for sightings of profiled leopards. The region’s vegetation provides ample food for white rhinos, hyenas, and nyala.
The BIG 5:
1-Afrika-Löwe ( Panthera Leo):
These are highly social cats without a strict social hierarchy. Females dominate, and the role of the king can change among males. A character like “Simba” in a movie reflects the mother’s role in leading territories. Lions, one of the largest mammals since 10,000 years ago, are found in:
- Zambia in the South Luangwa National Park.
- Tansania im Serengeti-Nationalpark.
- Kenya, in the Mara.
- Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
- Kruger-Nationalpark, Südafrika.
Photography Tips: Capturing the perfect lion photograph requires patience. They rest in the morning and hunt at night. Some reserves offer night drives, providing opportunities for active shots, especially of cute lion cubs during the day.
2-Nashörner (Diceros Bicornis und Cerathotherium Simum):
Rhinos, among the most endangered Big 5 species, face threats due to illegal trade and poaching. Black and white rhinos, despite their names, share grey to medium brown colors. Their different facial structures and horn composition make them distinct. Found in:
- Tanzania in the Grumeti Game Reserve.
- Sabi Sand in South Africa.
- Madikwe Phinda Private Game Reserve.
- Botswana in Moremi.
- Kenya in the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
Photography Tips: Their massive bodies and impressive horns offer various composition options. A wide angle captures the context, while zooming focuses on details, portraying the strength and hope associated with their horns.
3-Büffel (Syncarpous Caffer):
Buffalos, resembling cows, are found in groups for defense. Both males and females have horns, with upward curves for defense. This solid bony structure, called a boss, is three times heavier than a lion’s adversary. Found in:
- Hwange in Zimbabwe.
- Botswana in Chobe.
- Addo in Südafrika.
- Kenya in the Masai Mara National Reserve.
Photography Tips: Capturing buffalo photographs can be tricky due to the darkness of their hides. Their horns and mysterious expressions are key elements to focus on. Images playing with mud or with Oxpeckers on their ears can be particularly attractive.
4-Leopard ( Panthera Pardus):
Leopards, known for their beautiful rosettes, are the fastest big cats. Their color varies, and black leopards are known as Black Panthers. Leopards prefer solitary hunting and avoid living with other big animals like lions. Found in:
- Zambia in the South Luangwa region.
- Kenia in der Mara.
- Sabi Sands.
- Botswana in the Moremi region.
Photography Tips: Correct exposure settings are crucial. Use the spot meter function for shots under a bright sky when leopards are in trees. Focus on their mysterious eyes to enhance the beauty of the photograph.
5-Afrikanischer Elefant (Loxodonta Africana):
With a weight of approximately 7 tons, the African Elephant Savanna is including in one of the biggest animals among the Big 5. The forest Elephant of Afrika ist etwa einen Meter kleiner und kommt hauptsächlich in der Region des Kongobeckens vor und wird nach einem Gentest als eine andere Art als der Savannenbewohner angesehen.
Weighing around 7 tons, the African Elephant Savanna is among the largest animals in the Big 5. Forest Elephants are a distinct species found in the Congo Basin. Their presence has been sought after by poachers. Found in:
- Namibia in the Etosha National Park.
- Addo-Elefanten-Nationalpark.
- Simbabwe im Hwange-Nationalpark.
- Botswana in the Chobe National Park.
Photography Tips: Capture wide-angle shots to showcase the natural landscape. Zoom in to highlight their physical features. Explore various angles to capture the elephants’ beauty.