East Africa - Wildlife List - Clinton Woods Photography

Here’s a comprehensive listing of the species I encountered during a brief visit to Tanzania and Uganda in late February of 2013, and even a couple that I wasn’t able to get a photograph of (H. Erectus; P. boisei at Olduvai Gorge ;). I observed nearly 60 distinct animals, including small rodents, the world’s largest mammals, exotic old world monkeys, great apes, and the biggest birds on the planet (not to mention the infamous mosquito). Many of these are recognized as critically endangered species. It’s humbling and exhilarating to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitats. Indeed, many of these wild animals, including the mountain gorilla, have never been successfully bred in captivity, so it’s critical that they are protected in the wild. Ecotourism such as the type that resulted in these images is a very important aspect of wildlife conservation that when done responsibly and purposefully, can provide more wealth for the local communities than profits made from illegal poaching or foraging activities. That’s a huge benefit for the local community that reaches far beyond just saving the native wildlife.

Please enjoy the following listing, and take a moment to appreciate the grandeur and vast diversity of life on our amazing planet. It’s a perspective that is sometimes easy to overlook in our busy, modern lifestyles. And if you can help me identify the couple of birds that I’m unsure of (they’re tagged below as “Unidentified”) I’d greatly appreciate it!