Fish
Great White Shark
The ocean's most famous apex predator
Animals in South Africa
South Africa combines savanna, fynbos, and coast — rhinos, leopards, African penguins, and great white sharks within one country's borders.
17 species in our guide are native to South Africa.
Animal profiles linked to South Africa
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Mammal
Giraffe
The tallest animal on Earth
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Mammal
Black Rhinoceros
Africa's hook-lipped browser in crisis
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Mammal
White Rhinoceros
The square-lipped giant of African grasslands
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Fish
Coelacanth
Living-fossil lobe-finned fish
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Reptile
Black Mamba
Africa's fast and feared elapid snake
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Mammal
African Wild Dog
Africa's cooperative pack hunter
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Mammal
Banded Mongoose
The cobra's agile rival
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Mammal
Wildebeest
The gnu of the great migration
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Mammal
Olive Baboon
Africa's adaptable monkey
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Bird
Secretary Bird
Long-legged raptor that stamps snakes
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Bird
Peach-faced Lovebird
Africa's pocket parrot that bonds for life
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Mammal
Warthog
Africa's tusked savanna pig
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Mammal
Meerkat
The cooperative sentinel of the Kalahari
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Mammal
Springbok
South Africa's pronking antelope
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Bird
White Stork
Europe's chimney-nesting messenger
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Bird
Grey Heron
The patient wetland hunter
FAQs about animals in South Africa
What animals are native to South Africa?
South Africa is home to 17 species in our guide, including Great White Shark, Giraffe, Black Rhinoceros, White Rhinoceros, Coelacanth, and more. Each profile covers habitat, diet, and conservation status.
Where can I learn about wildlife in South Africa?
Browse the species below for answer-first guides with range maps, FAQs, and comparison pages. For broader context, see our Animals of Africa region page.
Are any animals in South Africa endangered?
Several species native to South Africa are listed as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Check individual profiles for current status and how to help.