Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to a wide range of wildlife. More than 100 animal species live here, which makes game viewing very rewarding during safari game drives. Animals can be seen in several parts of the conservation area, depending on the season and location.
The main game viewing sites in Ngorongoro Conservation Area include the Ngorongoro Crater, the areas around Lake Ndutu near Serengeti National Park, and the short grass plains west of the Gol Mountains.
Ngorongoro Crater is the heart of the conservation area and the main attraction for visitors. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most wildlife rich places in Africa. The crater was formed when a large volcano erupted and later collapsed into itself, creating the largest unbroken volcanic caldera in the world.
Fertile soils on the crater floor allowed grasslands, swamps, and woodlands to develop. These habitats support more than 25,000 animals that live inside the crater throughout the year. Water and food are available in all seasons, which is why animals do not need to migrate far.
The most sought after animals in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are the African Big Five. African buffaloes are found in large numbers grazing on the crater floor. African elephants are often seen in forested areas and open plains. Lions are very common, with more than 50 living inside the crater. This gives Ngorongoro one of the highest lion populations in a small area. Leopards are shy and harder to see but may be spotted resting in trees or rocky areas. Black rhinos are endangered but can still be seen in the crater and are closely protected by park authorities.
Many other animals are also found in Ngorongoro. These include wildebeests and zebras, which live in the crater all year and do not join the great migration. Other species include cheetahs, hippos, gazelles, topi, spotted hyenas, jackals, wild dogs, hartebeests, elands, kudus, warthogs, waterbucks, impalas, and kobs. Giraffes are mostly seen around Lake Ndutu and outside the crater.
In addition to animals, Ngorongoro Conservation Area also supports rich birdlife. A visit here offers strong wildlife experiences for every safari traveler.
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