A discussion about Africa often brings up the term, the Big 5. What does this refer to? Most people will know the answer: a group of five animals highly sought after on safari. The struggle for some usually comes with identifying which animals form part of this particular group. One of the clues might come in the form of the term’s original definition. Many people mistakenly believe that the term refers to the five biggest animals in Africa. This is not the case. The term, in fact, refers to the five animals hunters found the most challenging to pursue. The term was adopted by tour operators as a must-see list of animals whilst of safari, some of which may prove challenging to find.
A Threatened Existence
The rhino is already famous worldwide due to the poaching crisis in South Africa. This magnificent creature is part of the Big 5 and not the only one to be threatened by poaching. Many animals are at risk and safaris and game reserves have made wildlife conservation an integral part of their mission. Elephants are another member of this illustrious group that are threatened by poaching, as are lions and leopards; even the African Buffalo is threatened by human interference.
The Lazy Lion
All these noble creatures make for an exciting quest on a South African safari. The open spaces are the rightful home of the animals which roam through them. We are allowed a glimpse into their way of life with a safari and get closer than you ever believed was possible; but a respectful distance must still be maintained as we pass through their home. A Big 5 safari will give you the opportunity to see lions soaking in the sun. The term lazy lion was not ascribed loosely and they live up to this title, sleeping for up to 16 hours a day. The male lion in particular is spectacularly lazy leaving the task of raising cubs, as well as hunting, to the lionesses.
Family Ties
Affectionate displays of family love can be observed in the behaviour of buffalos who shove young calves into the middle of the herd when danger is near. Elephant love is displayed in the matriarchal herds where all the females help in raising the young. Leopards are mysterious and illusive big cats. They are solitary and prowl through the mountains at night in search of their prey. They are the most difficult member to find and spotting one is quite rare. There are five subspecies of rhinos and two of them dwell in Africa. These are the black rhino and the white rhino; however, both are grey. Rhinos have fairly poor eyesight, but to make up for it they have an acute sense of hearing. The calves are very attached to their mothers and remain by their sides for up to three years.
Big 5 Safari
These five animals are a unique assortment, which makes the search to find them equally distinctive. Luxurious nights spent in quality accommodation will make the experience that much better, combined with the exhilarating open air and the splendour of the African sun as you bounce over immense swathes of land whilst going on a Big 5 safari.
Originally published on Safaris Lodge.