Fascinating Wildlife Tours in Africa - Explore EthiopiaPosted by Norris Leth on May 23rd, 2021 Fascinating Wildlife Tours in Africa - Explore Ethiopia There are very few nature enthusiasts who don't have ambitions to go on wildlife tours in Africa. This enormous continent is home to some of the most incredible animal species on the planet, and several of its countries offer fantastic organised wildlife tours. In Africa, whether you visit Morocco on the trail of the Bald Ibis, go searching for the Lemurs of Madagascar, or are fascinated by the Picathartes of Ghana, you are bound to be stunned by the wonderful scenery and incredible array of animal species. Wildlife tours in Africa could see you discovering the Middle East, North Africa, Sub Saharan Africa or the Indian Ocean Islands. No matter where you choose, however, this is a mesmerising place that will have you returning home with unforgettable stories and tales of amazing experiences. A visit to discover the Ethiopian Wolf is just one. The Wolves of Ethiopia Ethiopia is a relatively undiscovered part of the continent. A land of huge social and cultural diversity, the animals and environment of Ethiopia is equally so. There are hundreds of fascinating bird species that thrive here, as well as almost 100 mammals - including the only wolf species to exist in the continent. The Ethiopian Wolf is a stunning sight with its elegant stature, long slender legs, fine physique and distinctive red-tinged coat. It is close in species to the coyote and the Grey Wolf and is one of the world's rarest carnivores. Unfortunately, the Ethiopian Wolf is in danger of extinction, with only 500 remaining in existence today. The all too familiar story of habitat destruction and pressure on the species applied by human encroachment has led to it being pushed closer to extinction. Disease has also destroyed whole packs and the impact of inbreeding with domesticated dogs has led to genetic integrity being destroyed. Thankfully, however, the animal's plight has been recognised and efforts are being made to proactively protect the livelihood of this important part of Ethiopia's heritage. The last stronghold of the Ethiopian Wolf is in the Bale Mountains that sit 3000m above sea level. Living in large family packs, the wolves rely on each other and the conservation efforts in place for survival. The close-knit territorial packs are made up of strong social bonds that play a significant role in the pack's survival. Adults patrol the territory at dawn and dusk, which is the most vulnerable time for predators, but at other times they forage alone. The wolves of Ethiopia exist on a knife-edge - one of the reasons wildlife tours in Africa, and in Ethiopia specifically, are important. By educating people to the plight of these animals, visitors are offered the chance to sight them in the wild and the money brought in to the protected areas, as a result, is extremely important. There are many wonderful wildlife tours in Africa on offer, but if you are looking for something that little bit special and a little more off the beaten track, choose Ethiopia -you will not regret it. Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you're looking for wildlife tours in Africa, Naturetrek specialises in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek brings over 25 years of experience to polar expeditions and tours to other spectacular regions on Earth. Jobs Vacancy EthiopiaLike it? Share it! |