It's nice to hear some good news sometimes, isn't it? We all know the world has been struggling with animals becoming hunted to extinction and the effect that climate change has had on different species of plants and wildlife. Thankfully, things are starting to change, little by little. Thanks to the incredible conservation efforts of charities and non-profits around the world, helped with generous donations from people from all walks of life, some of our favourite animals are still with us. Here are some amazing African animals that are no longer endangered and where you can find them!
The White Rhino
Once technically considered to be extinct, the southern white rhinoceros has made a comeback worthy of any fallen former star. It took just 75 years from it being discovered at large to population levels dropping to near-extinction, due to poaching. But thanks to years of conservation work and curbs on poaching, they now number 2,000 in the wild. Unfortunately, white rhinos might again be under threat following South Africa's decision to lift the ban on the domestic ivory trade. Here's to hoping that the population continues to grow.
Where to find them: South Africa
There are two types of white rhino, but sadly there are only two northern white rhinos left, and they are both in captivity. The southern white rhino, which has seen its population grow recently, can be found in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Kenya. Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park in South Africa claims to be the oldest conservation park on the continent, having been founded in 1895, and is home to 1,600 white rhinos as of 2008.
The Manatee
Also known as the sea cow, these graceful giants can be found roaming the oceans and waterways from Africa to the Americas. The West African manatee has found itself in a lot of trouble, being highly sought after by poachers for everything from its meat, to its skin, bones, and even oil. Thanks to the West African Manatee Conservation Project, which brought together authorities from Mauritania, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Sierra Leone, manatees have been tracked and their progress recorded. Due to the success of the first phase of this, which ran from 2004 to 2007, a second phase is in the works.
Where to find them: Gambia
The West African manatee can be found throughout the coastal waterways of West Africa. If you want a closer look, Niumi National Park in Gambia is a good place to go. The wetland complex is home to a large delta of the River Gambia, and these cheerful creatures can be found peacefully frolicking in its waters.
The African Elephant
The largest land animal on the planet is not endangered. This walking giant has managed to stay afloat despite threats from poachers desperate to tug out their tusks for sale in the ivory trade. The African giant is still listed as vulnerable, but considerable conservation efforts will hopefully ensure that it stays with us for many years to come.
Where to find them: Kenya
Elephants can be found in the wild across sub-Saharan Africa, though most of them roam the plains in the south and east of the continent. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a foundation based in Kenya that rescues elephants orphaned due to poaching and rehabilitates them in a number of parks. To get up close with some elephants that have been through a lot, visit one of the sanctuaries they support. Why not take a trip to Tsavo National Parks, which welcomed another orphaned elephant last April?
What are your favourite animals? Do you give money for conservation efforts? Let us know in the comments below.
Catch up with us on Twitter, and check out our Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube for more culture, fashion, and news about the things you care about.