Addax

Species: Addax
Habitat: Sahara Desert
Status: Critically Endangered
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safari

Addax are hearty animals living in the nearly barren desert of northern Africa. They are well adapted to that environment. Their beautiful fur is light, reflecting the scorching sun. Their hooves are widely splayed to make it much easier to traverse the sandy landscape. They can survive without free water almost indefinitely, getting their water directly from the plant life they eat.

Pregnancy lasts nine months, usually with the mother giving birth to a single calf. At first, the newborns lie in the sparse vegetation of the desert (which is what the adult animals eat). The newborn will come out periodically only to nurse until it is big and strong enough to follow its mother. The herd is typically between 5 to 20 animals.

In the wild, the addax is virtually extinct. It is likely there are less than 200 animals in its former range, where in the 1800s it was quite plentiful. The massive decline is mostly due to over hunting. Leather from its hide was highly regarded. It is now considered critically endangered.

Nyala

Species: Nyala
Habitat:Lowlands of Southern Africa
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safari

The nyala is a common species of antelope in southeastern Africa. There it eats fruits, flowers, and trees. During the rainy season, the animal eats mostly grasses. They feed mostly at night or early in the morning. During the heat of the day, they will rest in the shaded thick bush.

Nyala are a good example of sexual dimorphism. That is, the males and females look much different. Females are a chestnut color while the male is a greyish, brown with spiraling horns. They are also much larger. They live in small groups but will mix with other species such as the impala and kudu for protection. The more animals there are together the more likely a hunter will be spotted. The major predators are, of course, hunting dogs, leopards and lions.

Currently, there appears to be about 35,000 nyala throughout their range. Fortunately, about three quarters of the population lies within national parks and reserves. Hunting, habitat loss and agriculture still pose a threat to the long term survival of the species but it is currently listed as Least Concern.

Blue-throated Macaw

Species: Blue-throated Macaw
Habitat: Savanna of Bolivia
Status: Critically Endangered
DAK Locale: Winged Encounters

The Blue-throated macaw has a limited range. It is found only in North central Bolivia. There, small clusters of palm trees dot the savanna landscape. In these clusters lives this species of macaw. These birds not only roost in these trees but also eat the palm's fruit, which make up a large portion of its diet. Other species of macaws as well as woodpeckers, toucans, and barn owls compete with the blue-throated macaw for space to nest.

This species of macaws are most commonly found in pairs. However, they will occasionally congregate in larger groups. Even still, the birds mate for life. In fact, it is unknown if they will find another mate if their current one dies.

Recent studies show only 350 to 400 individuals left in the wild, making the species Critically Endangered. The biggest culprit of their demise has been the pet trade, much like all macaw and parrot species. However, the blue-throated variety does have the added problem of having a naturally limited range. Fortunately, they do well in captivity and there are over 1000 birds in zoos and other facilities.