Let’s Meet The Animals
Safari Country is home to over 30 unique species! Find information about the animals below!
African Watusi
The African Watusi, also called the Cattle of Kings, has a storied history in Kenya and Rwanda, dating back 6,000 years. Known for their massive horns, they’re the world’s largest horned cattle. Despite their imposing size, they’re gentle and resilient. Weighing 800 to 1600 pounds, they’re adaptable and used as working animals. Originating from eastern Africa, they’re recognized by their dark brown coat. Feeding on grass and vegetation, they form herds for protection. Calves are remarkably agile, able to walk and run shortly after birth. With a secure conservation status, they continue to thrive in Africa.
Alpaca
The Alpaca, originating from South America’s high altitudes, arrived in the United States in 1984. With a lifespan of about 20 years and a gestation period of 11.5 months, they thrive on grasses and low-growing plants. Standing 4 to 5 feet tall and weighing 125 to 175 pounds, Alpacas produce the world’s finest natural fiber, known for its softness and strength. Available in various colors, they come in two types: Suri, with dreadlock-like wool, and Huacaya, resembling a teddy bear. Alpacas emit a distinct clicking noise when nervous.
Alpine Goat
Alpine Goats (Capra hircus), characterized by their beards, erect ears, and diverse coloration, originate from the Alps. Often referred to as Alpine Dairy Goats, they possess an exceptional milk production capacity. These hardy and adaptable animals thrive in various climates, showcasing their resilience. The majority of Alpine Goats in the United States trace their lineage back to stock imported from the French Alps in 1922. With a lifespan of 12 to 15 years and a conservation status of “Not Threatened,” Alpine Goats contribute significantly to the dairy industry.
American Bison/Buffalo
The American Bison, also known as the Buffalo (Bison bison), is truly remarkable. Standing at up to 6 feet at the shoulders and weighing over 2,000 pounds or even a ton, these creatures are massive. Females are smaller than males, and both genders have cud-chewing habits, cloven hooves, and majestic horns. Their diet consists mainly of grasses and leaves, requiring them to consume over 30 pounds of food per day, but surprisingly, they only need to drink once a day.
These animals have highly developed senses of smell and hearing. Their gestation period lasts between 270 to 285 days, and they live for 18 to 22 years. They’re easily recognizable by their large bodies, low-slung heads, dark brown fur, and distinctive hump on their back. Despite their size, they can reach speeds of up to 30 mph.
To protect themselves from insects, bison roll in the dirt, and they typically have only one offspring at a time. Once numbering in the hundreds of thousands on the western plains, excessive hunting nearly drove them to extinction. However, thanks to conservation efforts, their populations are recovering, and they’re no longer considered threatened.
Blue & Gold Macaw
The Blue & Gold Macaw, scientifically known as Ara ararauna, is native to Central and South America. This magnificent bird stands tall, reaching over 30 inches in height and weighing more than 2 pounds. Its vibrant appearance is characterized by a unique facemask of white adorned with colored streaks, complemented by a long and colorful tail. Equipped with a large, hooked beak, the macaw uses it to crack open Brazil nuts and slice through various fruits. These social creatures are usually found in pairs or groups of 15 to 20 birds. Interestingly, both males and females exhibit similar physical traits. The females lay 2 to 3 eggs, which hatch after approximately 28 days. The offspring are ready to fledge, or develop wing feathers for flight, after about 3 months. Sadly, the Blue & Gold Macaw is currently listed as threatened, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect this remarkable species.
Brahma
The Brahma, also known as the Sacred cattle of India, originates from India and is revered in Hinduism. Bulls weigh between 1600 to 2200 pounds, cows between 1000 to 1400 pounds, and calves around 60 to 65 pounds. Known for their intelligence and adaptability, they come in various colors and have a thick, glossy coat. Their diet includes grasses, grains, and vegetation. Brahma cattle have a dewlap that helps cool their bodies. They’ve been exported worldwide for beef or dairy purposes, typically giving birth to one or two calves. With a lifespan of around 14 years, they’re not currently threatened.
Dromedary Camel
The Dromedary Camel, scientifically known as Camelus dromedarius, is a fascinating creature. With its single hump, wooly coat ranging from beige to caramel, and long, slender neck and legs, it’s a majestic sight. Found in arid regions of the Middle East, Northern Africa, and Australia, it weighs between 1,000 to 1,500 pounds and can grow up to 10 feet in length.
Known for its endurance, strength, and capability to cover up to 100 miles in a day, it’s often used as a saddle animal or a beast of burden. Its diet mainly consists of vegetation, but it can also consume fish and bones. Adapted to its environment, its coloration provides natural camouflage, and its thick lips and long eyelashes offer protection from thorny plants and harsh sand.
The Dromedary Camel has calloused knees and body to navigate hot sand comfortably, and its hump serves as a fat store for survival in scarcity. With a lifespan of 40 to 50 years, it’s not currently threatened and holds a stable conservation status, showcasing resilience and adaptability in the animal kingdom.
Eland
The Eland, scientifically known as Taurotragus oryx, stands as the largest member of the Antelope Family. Originating from the semi-arid and sparse forest regions of Africa, these majestic creatures can reach an impressive height of up to 6 feet at the shoulder. Weighing between 800 to 2000 pounds, their predominantly brown color is adorned with light striping. Sporting twisted horns that grow as long as 4 feet, the Eland skillfully utilizes these appendages to obtain food that would otherwise be out of reach. Notably, they possess a dewlap, a flap of skin hanging from their throat, which aids in heat dissipation in the semi-desert areas they inhabit. Typically, a normal herd size consists of approximately 25 animals, although they can form larger groups of 200 or more. These groups are predominantly composed of females, with only a few males, one of which assumes the role of the dominant male. As for their diet, the Eland feeds on grass, brush, fruit, and tubers, foraging on open plains. Remarkably, they can endure the dry season without water, but when available, they will drink as much as possible. Unfortunately, the Eland’s conservation status is currently listed as endangered, prompting the need for concerted efforts to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures.
Emu
The Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae), a member of the ratite family, is a large, flightless bird native to Australia. It is characterized by its powerful legs, long drooping brown feathers, and distinct light blue neck patterns. Emus inhabit grassy plains and open forests across Australia, where they actively forage for fruits, flowers, insects, seeds, and vegetation during the day. With a height ranging from 5 to 6 feet and a weight of 80 to 120 pounds, these birds are known for their impressive size. Emus possess remarkable speed, capable of reaching bursts of up to 30 mph, aiding in their survival in the wild. Additionally, they exhibit unique reproductive behavior, with males assuming the role of incubating eggs for approximately 8 weeks and guarding their chicks for up to 18 months, demonstrating a significant level of parental care. The Emu’s lifespan typically ranges from 5 to 10 years, and its conservation status is currently listed as “Not Threatened.
Fainting Goat
The Fainting Goat, scientifically known as Capra hircus, is renowned for its captivating trait called Myotonia, which causes temporary stiffness and falls. Originating from Tennessee, they’re herbivores, primarily feeding on grass and shrubs. These goats come in a variety of color patterns, including black, white, brown, and red, with coarse hair adding to their distinctive appearance. Both males and females possess hollow horns, enhancing their allure.
Despite their fainting episodes, these remarkable creatures have a lifespan exceeding 13 years, measuring between 17 to 25 inches in height and weighing between 50 to 125 pounds. Their gestation period lasts between 145 to 151 days. Despite their peculiar behavior, the Fainting Goat is not considered threatened, maintaining a stable conservation status.
Greater Rhea
The Greater Rhea, also known as Rhea Americana, is a large avian species native to southern South America. Standing around 5 feet tall and weighing up to 65 pounds, they inhabit plains and grasslands, sporting brown to black-long feathers and primarily feeding on grasses, leaves, and insects.
These birds exhibit remarkable social behavior, living in communal groups of 20 to 30. Males construct nests, incubate eggs, and nurture chicks. With exceptional hearing and eyesight, they navigate their surroundings effectively. Equipped with robust legs, they kick for self-defense and can run at speeds of up to 30 mph. Unfortunately, their conservation status is threatened, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures.
Kunekune Pigs
Kunekune pigs, also known as Cooney Conney, are a small breed of domestic pig originally from New Zealand. Their name, which means “fat and round” in Maori, accurately describes their appearance. Kunekune pigs have a distinctive look with their curly tails, semi-lopped ears, and short snouts. They come in a variety of colors, including cream, ginger, black, brown, and white, and their coats can be spotted or solid in color. These pigs are known for their intelligence, playfulness, and affectionate nature, making them popular pets. Kunekune pigs are also considered to be relatively low-maintenance animals, as they can live exclusively on well-maintained pasture grass.
Lamancha Goat
The Lamancha Goat, scientifically known as Capra hircus, is a remarkable breed originating from the United States, particularly California, and widely found in Spain. These agile climbers possess a unique feature that aids in their nimble movements – hair growth between their hooves, providing them with excellent traction on smooth surfaces. Interestingly, Lamancha Goats have two kids after a gestation period of 21 to 22 weeks, and they typically live for 8 to 12 years. Their ears come in two distinct types: Type 1, known as Gopher Ear, is either non-existent or doesn’t exceed 1 inch, while Type 2, Elf Ear, can reach up to 2 inches in length. When it comes to their diet, these goats primarily feed on grasses and brush. Furthermore, Lamancha Goats are the only breed of American Dairy Goat, known for their milk’s high butterfat content. Despite their popularity and unique characteristics, the conservation status of Lamancha Goats is not threatened.
Llama
The Llama, scientifically known as Llama glama, originates from the Andean Highlands and Andes Mountains of South America. They communicate through humming, have a lifespan of around 20 years in captivity, and weigh 250 to 460 pounds. Coming in various colors, they give birth after a 350-day gestation period, with offspring weighing 20 to 35 pounds. Llamas serve various purposes, including packing and wool production. In the US, they’re used for fiber production, shows, and as guard animals. Despite their importance, they’re not endangered and have a stable conservation status.
Miniature Dexter
The Miniature Dexter, also known as the Irish Miniature Dexter, is a remarkable member of the cattle family. Standing at a mere 3 feet with short legs, it is one of the smallest breeds. Despite its small stature, it can weigh up to 800 pounds. This bovine beauty comes in either black or reddish brown, adding to its allure. Originally from Ireland, it can now be found in various parts of the world. As an ungulate mammal, its diet consists of grasses and leafy plants. The Miniature Dexter serves as a valuable food source, providing both milk and beef. With a limited birth rate of only a few calves, this breed is treasured. Notably, it is hardy and resilient, capable of withstanding temperature extremes and diseases. Both males and females possess horns, adding to their distinctive appearance. With a lifespan exceeding 15 years, this breed is not currently threatened.
Miniature Donkey
The Miniature Donkey, scientifically known as Equus asinus, belongs to the equine family and serves various purposes. These adorable creatures are utilized for breeding, showing, pulling carts, and even as beloved pets. Female Miniature Donkeys are referred to as Jennet or Jenny, while the males are called Jacks. With a lifespan ranging from 25 to 35 years, these compact animals weigh between 200 to 350 pounds. Standing at a height of 32 to 36 inches, they may be small in stature but possess immense charm. The gestation period for Miniature Donkeys lasts from 11.5 to 13 months, and their foals weigh a mere 20 to 30 pounds at birth.
Miniature Zebu
The Miniature Zebu, originating from the Island of Sri Lanka in Asia, bears a striking resemblance to Brahma cattle, distinguished by the hump on their back. These remarkable creatures measure a mere 42 inches or smaller in height. Their diet primarily consists of grazing on grassy forages, hay, and grain. Notably, they exhibit a remarkable resistance to diseases and pests. Adorned with drooping ears, a large dewlap, and a prominent hump, their colorations range from gray, white, reddish-brown, to black. Originally bred in Africa, India, Pakistan, and Asia, they have now spread to various parts of the world. Their ability to withstand scorching temperatures is truly remarkable. Additionally, they possess sebaceous glands beneath their skin that secrete a pungent, oily substance, effectively repelling ticks and other insects. This unique characteristic has led to their interbreeding with other cattle strains. Regarded as sacred, these majestic beings are allowed to roam freely. With a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, the Miniature Zebu is currently not threatened and enjoys a stable conservation status.
Nilgai Antelope
The Nilgai Antelope, scientifically known as Boselaphus tragocamelus, originates from India and Pakistan but was introduced to Texas in the 1930s. Weighing between 330 to 550 pounds, males are heavier than females. Males have short black horns, earning them the nickname “blue bulls,” while females lack horns and are smaller with a brown coat. Their diet includes grasses, plants, and fruit.
Nilgai Antelopes have exceptional eyesight and hearing, enabling them to detect threats and run for extended periods. They form separate groups except during breeding season, and over 60 percent of births result in twins. With a shoulder height of 52 to 56 inches, they have a longer front legs than hind legs. Gestation lasts 8.5 to 9.5 months, and they live about 20 years. Despite their introduction to Texas, they’re not considered threatened and have a stable conservation status.
Nubian Goat
The Nubian Goat, scientifically known as Capra hircus, is a majestic creature with distinctive features, including hornless heads and drooping ears. Originating from Egypt, they are now domesticated worldwide. Standing 30 to 35 inches tall and weighing 135 to 175 pounds, they are known for their exceptional milk production, producing milk with higher butterfat content year-round. Their diverse diet includes grasses, plants, hay, and grain.
Nubian Goats’ agility allows them to reach high branches, aided by their four-chambered stomachs, enabling them to consume large quantities of food quickly. With a lifespan of 10 to 14 years, they make significant contributions to agriculture. Despite their impressive attributes, they are not currently threatened in terms of conservation status, thanks to their popularity and widespread domestication.
Ostrich
The Ostrich (Struthio camelus), originating in Africa and Western Asia, is known for its distinct features and behaviors. These flightless birds roam Eastern and Southern Africa, often in groups, and engage in elaborate courtship displays with booming calls and dances. With long necks, small heads, and powerful legs, they have small wings with black and white plumage. Nesting involves communal egg-laying in one nest, with males responsible for incubation and caring for the chicks after hatching, which occurs around 40 days post-laying.
Peacock
The Pavo Cristatus, commonly known as the Peacock, is a magnificent bird native to South Asia. Males possess an iridescent blue body and an elongated train that resembles a fan when courting females. During courtship, males engage in a striking display, shaking their train to attract mates. It is noteworthy that the train is not their true tail but consists of elongated tail coverts, each adorned with a colorful “eye.” Females, in contrast, are less ostentatious, sporting a shorter train devoid of these distinctive markings. Males communicate with females through loud “Kee-ow” calls. As terrestrial feeders, Peafowl forage for sustenance on the ground, while at night, they seek refuge in the heights of tall trees. These majestic birds can reach lengths ranging from 6 to 7 ½ feet and weigh between 8 to 13 pounds. Currently, their conservation status is considered common.
Pygmy Goat
The Pygmy Goat (Capra hircus) is a small-sized animal with both males and females possessing hollow horns. These goats have smooth coats that come in various colors such as gray, black, brown, or white. Interestingly, both genders have scent glands on the crown of their heads, but only the males emit a strong, musky odor to attract females. Originally from West Africa, they were brought to the U.S.A. in the 1950s and are now found worldwide, primarily for milk and meat production. Weighing between 35 to 75 pounds, these goats stand at a height of 15 to 17 inches at the shoulders, but can reach up to 23 inches. They are agile climbers and thrive in rocky or rugged mountainous terrains. With hair growing between their cloven hooves, they possess excellent traction on various surfaces. Their diet mainly consists of leaves, grasses, bushes, and trees, and they can even stand on their hind legs to reach high branches. These goats have a lifespan of 10 to 18 years and usually give birth to 1 to 3 babies. The offspring nurse immediately, start eating grain and roughage within a week, and are weaned by 3 months. They reproduce every 9 to 12 months, with a gestation period of 5 months. Currently, the Pygmy Goat is not threatened and does not have a conservation status.
Quail
The Coturnix coturnix, commonly known as the quail, is a small and elusive game bird native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and Madagascar. These birds are characterized by their compact size, measuring approximately 7 inches in length and weighing between 2 ½ to 5 ounces. Their plumage exhibits a distinctive pattern of black and buff streaks on their flanks, contrasting with a dull gray belly.
Quails possess migratory behavior, with those breeding in Europe undertaking seasonal migrations from Africa during the spring. The males of the species are known for their distinct “whit wit-wit” call, which serves as a means of communication to establish contact and locate one another.
At night, quails roost on the ground in tightly huddled groups for protection and warmth. Their diet primarily consists of seeds, flower buds, leaves, small fruits, insects, and other invertebrates, making them adaptable and resourceful foragers.
The conservation status of quails is currently classified as “Common,” indicating a stable and abundant population. These birds play an important role in maintaining ecological balance and contribute to the biodiversity of their respective habitats.
Red Kangaroo
The Red Kangaroo, scientifically known as Macropus rufus, holds the title for being the largest kangaroo species and the largest marsupial. Males sport a striking reddish coat, while females display a bluish gray hue, both adorned with a white-furred belly. Originating from the open plains and woodlands of Central Australia, these magnificent creatures stand tall at heights ranging from 3 to 6 feet and weigh between 65 to 180 pounds. Females, however, are notably smaller than their male counterparts.
With their active nocturnal lifestyle, Red Kangaroos have a diverse diet consisting of grasses, leaves, shoots, and herbs. They are highly social animals, traveling in groups known as mobs. Their remarkable legs, equipped with powerful hind limbs, enable them to jump up to 6 feet high and reach speeds of up to 35 mph. To maintain balance and stability, they rely on their impressive 42-inch-long tail.
In the wild, Red Kangaroos have a lifespan of approximately 15 years. Fortunately, they are not currently threatened and are considered to have a stable conservation status.
Ring-tailed Lemur
The Ring-tailed Lemur (Lemur catta) hails from the forests of Southern Madagascar, named for its distinctive facial features and ethereal appearance. Active primarily at night, they have sleek bodies, pointed snouts, and long tails adorned with black and white stripes. Their diet includes fruits, leaves, flowers, and insects. Gestation lasts 120 to 136 days, often resulting in single births, though twins are possible. Weighing 5 to 8 pounds and measuring 15 to 18 inches tall (excluding their 22 to 25-inch tails), they’re diurnal and live in groups of 5 to 30 individuals. Females remain in their birth group for life, while males frequently move between groups. Despite their sunbathing habits and adept leaping skills, habitat destruction has led to their endangered status. Conservation efforts are vital for their survival and ecosystem balance.
Saanen Goat
The Saanen Goat, also known as Capra hircus, is the largest breed of dairy goat. With an average weight of 175 pounds, they are quite impressive. These goats are easily recognizable by their solid creamy-white coat and erect ears. Originating from the Saanan Valley in Switzerland, they have now been domesticated all over the world. As herbivores, their diet consists of grasses, leaves, and other plant life, although they are quite finicky eaters and avoid odiferous foods. Saanen Goats are prolific breeders, typically giving birth to twins but capable of having up to 6 offspring. A single mother can produce an impressive 4,000 pounds of milk per year, although their milk fat content is relatively low at 3 percent. These goats are social animals and can be found in small to medium-sized herds. Leadership within the group is determined through head butting contests among males. With a lifespan of around 15 years, Saanen Goats are not currently threatened and have a stable conservation status.
Scimitar-Horned Oryx
The Scimitar-Horned Oryx (Oryx dammah), an endangered large animal native to northern Africa, exhibits unique physical characteristics and behaviors. Distinguished by their striking white coats, chestnut-colored necks and chests, and contrasting cocoa to beige face and leg markings, these graceful creatures possess long, back-swept, ringed horns, often exceeding 33 ½ inches in length. Males typically weigh between 300 to 470 pounds, while females range from 200 to 300 pounds. Primarily grazers with a preference for open expanses and sandy scrub to desert habitats, they possess low parasite resistance and assertively interact among themselves. Additionally, they exhibit breeding patterns influenced by rainfall and have a gestation period of 8 to 8 ½ months, typically producing a single offspring. Despite their ability to scramble over three-foot fences and jump up to six feet, their population remains vulnerable, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to preserve this majestic species.
Shetland Sheep
The Shetland Sheep, scientifically known as Ovis aries, is a small British breed known for its agility, calmness, and soft wool. Rams weigh between 90 to 125 pounds and have distinctive spiral horns, while ewes are about 20% smaller and usually polled. Originating in Europe, they were introduced to the Shetland Islands over a millennium ago. Their wool comes in various hues, and they primarily eat grasses and low brush. Highly versatile, they’re valued for wool, milk, and meat production, typically giving birth to a single lamb. With a lifespan of around ten years, they’re not currently threatened and have a stable conservation status.
Sulcata Tortoise
The Sulcata Tortoise, also known as the African Spurred Tortoise, is a remarkable creature native to Africa. It’s the third largest species of tortoise, with males reaching weights of up to 200 pounds. They thrive in harsh, dry environments, relying on grasses, flowers, and succulent plants for sustenance and water intake. With a lifespan of up to 100 years and an average of over 50 years, they can grow up to 3 feet in length, boasting a broad shell and thick skin with spurs on their thighs. Despite their size, they’re not currently threatened and have a stable conservation status.
Vulturine Guineafowl
The Vulturine Guineafowl (Acryllium vulturinum) is a distinctive bird found in Eastern Africa. Possessing a long neck adorned with a hackle of intricate lace-shaped feathers, these feathers display a striking pattern of black, white, and blue stripes. Notable for its defensive instincts, the Vulturine Guineafowl employs pecking, scratching, and vigorous buffeting with its wings to deter potential threats. Additionally, this species is renowned for its vocalizations, producing a distinctive staccato call of “Kek-kek-kekkek-kekkekkek” when alarmed. Measuring approximately 22 inches in length and weighing between 2 and 3 pounds, the Vulturine Guineafowl exhibits a common conservation status.
Water Buffalo
The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is a prominent member of the Bovine family, known for its imposing size. Standing over 5 feet tall, these majestic creatures showcase a range of colors, from light gray to dark gray. Their medium-length horns boast a wide base, providing essential protection for their skulls. Renowned as diligent work animals, Water Buffaloes are utilized across the globe. They exhibit a preference for swamps and rivers, making wetland areas and rainforests their natural habitats. Their herbivorous diet consists of grasses and leafy bushes. Remarkably, Water Buffaloes give birth to only 1 or 2 calves, which can walk and run shortly after being born. Originating from Asia and Africa, these magnificent creatures are rarely found in the wild. To ensure the safety of their young, herds often unite for added protection. With a lifespan exceeding 20 years, Water Buffaloes are not currently threatened and enjoy a stable conservation status.
White Park
The White Park, scientifically known as Bos taurus, is a remarkable member of the cattle family. Its distinguishing feature is its predominantly white coat, earning it the moniker “White Horned Cow.” Interestingly, this breed possesses a distinct characteristic – a black tongue. Originating from Britain more than 2,000 years ago, the White Park was initially bred as a sacred animal by both the Romans and Britons. However, it has also been raised as a valuable food source in certain parts of Europe. With a diet consisting of grasses, brush, and various vegetation, this breed is known for its adaptability. Despite its rarity in the United States, with only a few known populations, the White Park is known to produce only one or two calves at a time. These young calves must quickly be on the move to evade potential predators. With an average lifespan of 20 years, the White Park is a truly remarkable creature deserving of our admiration.