The best thing about this list is that some of the mightiest creatures in Africa are actually very small. There are many strong animals on the continent, but the rest of the planet’s strongest animals – grizzly bears, anacondas, tigers and leaf cutter ants – are found in other parts of the world. But the African animals on this list make for a pretty interesting collection nevertheless.

Rhino and Dung Beetles

These nifty little guys often carry the distinction of being the strongest animal in the world. Rhino beetles can lift 850 times their own weight. If humans had that kind of strength, they would be able to lift a 65-tonne object. The dung beetle – a little insect that feeds on dung – is a strong and important creature in the animal kingdom. They bury and consume dung, improving nutrient recycling and soil structure. They also protect livestock by removing dung, which provides habitat for pests if left. Their strength is indisputable, as they can pull 1 141 times their own body weight.

Oribatid Mite

The title of strongest animal in Africa, and the world, actually belongs to the oribatid mite. Hundreds of thousands of these mighty mites are found in a square metre of dirt and they can resist a pull of 1 180 times their own weight – which is equivalent to a human pulling 82 tons. They’ve only been included on the list for fun, because you’re not going to be seeing these tiny things on safari.

Elephant

Sometime size does matter. An elephant – the biggest land mammal in the world – is a strong and mighty beast. Their size and strength means they have no natural predators (although you get the occasional bold lion pride that has a go at them). However, humans have been, and still are, a great threat to elephants due to the demand for ivory.

Gorilla

Gorillas have larger muscles in their arms than in their legs. An adult gorilla’s upper body strength is six times more powerful than that of an adult human. They are able to lift and break heavy objects. So even though they love taking it easy, they are still super strong.

Cape Buffalo

These members of the Big Five are renowned for their strength and temperamental nature. They are extremely protective over their herd, and especially their young. With their broad chests and large heads, not to mention their impressive horns, they are a formidable opponent in the wild – much to the chagrin of many a lion.

African Crowned Eagle

This is the only bird to make the list. It is a massive bird of prey and can kill a victim over four times its weight. They have even been known to take down monkeys and antelopes.

This list should, of course, be taken in perspective. When we say these animals are the strongest in the world, we mean when compared with body weight. Because despite the strength of the little guys, you’re not likely to step on an elephant or a gorilla!

Originally published on Safaris Lodge

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