Top 12 Amazing Sahara Desert Animals You Need To See

Oct 4, 2021

Last Updated on: Dec 13, 2024

Travel Blog

When we Pictured the Sahara in our mind, then we usually think of Vast, a barren, hot, and lifeless place with lots of Sand with some people riding on their Camels wandering from place to place. But fortunately, it is not the case with Sahara. It is home to the Sahara desert Animals, plants, birds, and humans for thousands of years. Also, most of North Africa is covered by Sahara, and if you look at the map, it covers more than eight countries. 

The Sahara boasts of beautiful Sand dunes. The largest Sand dune can be found in the Sahara Desert of Morocco near Erg Chebbi. Marrakech to Erg Chebbi desert tour is the most popular package in Morocco. According to Guinness, the Sahara is the largest and biggest ‘hot desert on the entire planet.’ The animal that lives in the Sahara desert is unique, as the nature of the desert.

Sahara Desert Animals Life In Sahara

Sahara Desert Animals Life In Sahara
Image Source: cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net

Even though the harsh conditions of the Sahara Desert are incredibly taxing, yet nature continues to thrive amidst such difficult and unimaginable living conditions. According to biologists, there are over seventy species of Sahara desert animals and mammals who call this barren land their home. In addition, one can also find more than ninety species of birds. Besides, you can also find reptiles are arachnoids like Scorpions who call Sahara their home.

If we talk about some dangerous animals, then Sahara would not disappoint you. Because apart from domestic animals like Goats, Cows, and Camels, it is home to the highly feared deathstalker scorpion, the extremely venomous sand viper, and the powerful and speedy Cheetah, a bunch of antelopes and lovely long red-necked Ostrich, and many more.

Here are some of the very unique Sahara desert animals list which you could only find in the Sahara Desert.

1. The Famous Silver Ant of Sahara

Silver Ant of Sahara

Do you want to confront the fastest and on the earth? Among all 12000 species of ants, these are the fastest and rarest ants on the earth. Cataglyphis bombycina is their scientific name which comes out to forage in midday when the temperature is as high as 70 degrees.

This is unique in as much as its activity is restricted to just over ten minutes each day. In this short span, they have to find food and survive; otherwise, they would die. Researchers say that their defense strategy is one of the best in the world.

The body shape that the ants have helps them in dispensing heat more easily. Mostly they feed on animal carcasses.

2. Death Stalker Scorpion

Death Stalker Scorpion

It is one of the most lethal and deadliest Scorpion species to be found in the Sahara desert. People in other parts often called it Black Scorpio. When it bites, it may cause death if not treated timely.  They only attack when they are feared of death. They hunt only at night and can be found in Wall cracks, in burrows, and under the stones.

Among all animals, this is the deadliest animal in the Sahara desert. The tail of the Scorpio is full of venom. They use this venom for hunting the other insects and for proving more safety.

One of their unique behaviors is that they like to take their prey by surprise so they hide under rocks and attack unsuspecting small insects.

They spring out and tend to grab its victim, however, they are not very strong in their grabbing game so they need to sting the prey at the earliest.

3. Sand Viper

Sand Viper Sahara

In the Viper series, it is the deadliest. The Cerastes vipers can be found in a bunch in the Desert. They are found around 30-40cm and have an expansive, triangular head. The scientific name of the snake is Cerastes vipera which is found in the Arabian Peninsula and Levant.

They also have quite tiny eyes. Sand Viper can kill their prey by biting and transferring the toxin within minutes. Small animals and small lizards other than Komodo dragons are the regular eating targets.

Among the desert, animals list the poisonous insect’s list is quite long. These snakes have quite a unique look. They have small horns on their head. And the color of the snake is quite camouflaged. You only can see the horn and eyes while they are full body is buried under the sand.

The lifespan of the snake can extend to 18 years. The nature of the snake is not aggressive and tries to stay stable in the ground however, when it moves there is a crackling or rasping sound.

4. Desert Crocodiles

Desert Crocodiles

The scientific name of the desert crocodile is Crocodylus suchus and often is confused with the aggressive Nile crocodile.

It is hard to believe that crocodiles can survive in the desert because they live in water. They seek out moist areas like caves and burrows and make themselves comfortable. They mostly prefer burrows and caves for their place of being.

This also helps them hide and surprise their prey whenever it is walking by. In the rainy season, they come out from their shelter to the lakes. They try to adapt to the dryness of the Sahara desert by trying to find moistness.

Among all Sahara animals, this crocodile is addressed as sacred. These crocodiles are larger and relatively more aggressive than the Nile crocodile. Sahara desert animals are all habituated to survive the dry and harsh climate.

5. Monitor Lizards

Monitor Lizards sahara

They are cold-blooded animals that are mainly active between the months of September and April. Following this, they go into hibernation. They feed on eggs, fishes, and other lizards, but if they could not find anything to the east, then they might eat birds and other small mammals.

The animal knows exactly how to survive in the harsh and extreme climate of the Sahara desert. It is quite aggressive and becomes pretty threatened with encounters during cold seasons.

Among all Sahara desert animals, this one is very colorful. This lizard is widely seen in Africa and central and south Asia. The average span for the lizard to live is 8 years.

6. Black-Faced Fire finch

Black-Faced Fire finch sahara

This bird is from a unique bird species. The species are less endangered because they can be found abundant in the region of Sub-Saharan Africa. The scientific name of the bird is Lagonosticta larvata.

Recently, according to the new report by the BBC, their population is declining very fast.

The color of the male’s face is black while the female has more of a gray appearance. These beautiful red birds are another habitant of the Sahara desert. 

7. Hyrax

Hyrax sahara

They are the thickest herbivorous animals you could find in the Sahara Desert. People there call them small pigs. They usually hide under perforations and came out when they want food or for hunting. They live within a group of 10 to 50 animals and hunt together.

Hyrax is another Sahara desert animal which is looking gorgeous with its brown fur. These herbivorous mammals are permanent residents of the Sahara Desert. Though Hyrax is also found in the Gobi desert of Mongolia

8. African Wild Dogs

African Wild Dogs sahara

They are the natives of sub-Saharan Africa, and now they are on the list of endangered species. The scientific name of the animal is Procavia capensis which occurs in the sub-Saharan area of Africa. Their face continuously grows especially the upper incisors and at a certain point, it looks like small tusks.

Only about 40 species of these dogs managed to survive, which comprised 6000 adults. These wild dogs are not coming near to extinction among all the Sahara desert animals.

The outbreak of diseases, hunting from humans, and other causes like less rainfall in the Sahara Desert cause the decline of African wild Dog species. They are highly socialized reptiles who live and hunt in groups. Their primary source of food is antelopes. Females are the ones who leave their pack when they matured, not men.

9. Red Neck Ostrich

Red Neck Ostrich sahara

These can be found in North Africa, and it is the biggest bird on this planet. The scientific name of the bird is Struthio camelus camelus. This bird is one of the extant subspecies and lives in some of the harshest climates in the Sahara.

They have a mix of pink and red long necks and can grow up to 10 feet. The male ones have black and white feathers as opposed to females, who possess grey feathers.

Now, due to the increase in Ostrich farming around the world, the population of these species is declining rapidly. They are extinct in 12 countries and are now limited to only six countries. This desert Ostrich is coming near to extinction. Only a few are left.

10. African Silver Bill

They are the most adaptive Saharan Birds. They usually live in arid places, and so Sahara is the perfect place to live for them. The scientific name of the bird is Euodice cantans living mostly in the south of Africa.

The African Silverbill is also very sociable, like African Wild Dogs. They usually eat Grass and seeds.

Among all Sahara desert animals, this bird species is an example of a small passerine bird. The size of the bird is about 4 and a half inches long.

11. Saharan Cheetah

Saharan Cheetah image

Meet the fastest one among all the Sahara desert animals. One of the top Predators in the Sahara is Cheetah. Sadly their species are endangered, and only about 300 mature adults are left in the Sahara. The African cheetah has its scientific name as Acinonyx jubatus hecki and is considered a subspecies native of the Saharan desert. They can be found in the western parts of the Sahara. They mainly hunt at night, and their favorite prey is antelope, but sometimes they also hunt rabbits.

12. Addax Antelope

Addax Antelope sahara

An endangered species, which is now becoming very rare to be seen, is Sahara desert animals. The main reason for wiping out this species is the excess of hunting. These species are mainly locals of Niger and Chad. The addax is a desert-adapted African antelope with the scientific name Addax nasomaculatus. The animal is almost on the verge of being exterminated.

These are characterized by their long twisted horns, and the color of their coat is mainly white. They are very adaptive to Sahara because they can live without water for many days. They eat grasses and leaves of desert plants, and it is their primary source of water.

Frequently Asked Questions!!! (FAQs):

Q1. Do Any Animals Live In Sahara Dessert?

Ans: Yes, there are animals who have chosen to stay in Sahara Dessert. The mammal species that have been founded in the dessert are Gerbil, Jerboa, Cape hare, and Dessert Hedgehog.

Q2. Which Is The Most Important Animal In The Sahara Dessert?

Ans: Perhaps the Dromedary Camel is the most popular animal in the Sahara Dessert. It can be domesticated, rather it has been domesticated for thousands of years and they give their service to the desert nomads.

Q3. What Animal Has Adapted To Sahara Dessert?

Ans: The Fennec Fox, who has learned to endure the heat of the Sahara Dessert. Their large years are not only for cuteness, but they use it to hear predators from afar and also use them to release body heat. The large ears help them to stay cool on hot days.

Wrapping It Up:

If you want to enjoy the tour of the Sahara Desert and want to see these animals live then, you should visit Morocco. Morocco is famous for the Sahara Desert, and many tour companies offer Sahara tours. Sahara desert animals are all very rare, and many of them are near to extinction. So what about your planning to travel to the Sahara? Do not forget to share your exciting tour story with us.

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Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.

13 responses to “Top 12 Amazing Sahara Desert Animals You Need To See”

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BY  Sibashree Jul 10, 2024

If you are in Florida and want to give it all for your active pursuits, your path must lead to the Biscayne National Park. With the third longest coral reef, the watery wonderland is a beautiful coexistence of wildlife, water trails, hiking spots, and life under the water.   Also, did you know that as you visited Florida’s Biscayne National Park, you made a little contribution to the local and national economy? The National Park Service says,   “The South Florida national parks, comprised of Big Cypress National Preserve, Biscayne National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, and Everglades National Park, were collectively visited by 2.9 million people who spent $242.5 million and supported over 3,250 jobs in South Florida. The cumulative benefit to the South Florida economy was over $352 million.”   So, is the allure palpable enough? Are you already invested in the wildlife, islands, water sports, and the urge to do a little good for the local community? Pack your bags and set in! Meanwhile, let me do all the legwork and make all the plans to join you at the park.   Things To Know About Biscayne National Park  Before I share the details about the kayaking and canoeing fun at the Biscayne National Park, I want to present a brief overview of the park.   A visit to this park is truly a one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s like a microcosm of the universe with the falling together of land and water ecosystems.   It’s time to know the park at a glance before you plan a visit.   Biscayne National Park (Things To Know)  Best Time to Visit  Late November to April  Address 9700 SW 328th Street, Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead, FL 33033  Operating Hours  7:00 AM–5:30 PM, 7 days a week (except holidays) Size 172,971 acres Coral Reef Length  72,000 acres of the northernmost range of the Florida Reef Number of Visitors (in 2023) 571,242  Entrance Fee None Phone 305 230-1144 Alerts & Conditions  Updated regularly  Safety Concerns Mosquitoes and occasional storms Nearby Accommodation Facilities You can stay in tents and make the most of your camping experience. The camping spot is available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Otherwise, you can drive west for half an hour and find hotel chains in Homestead.  I know you can’t wait to have a slice of the national park ripe with outdoor adventure. So, let’s delve deeper into the water and have some kayaking fun and more!   Kayaking, Canoeing, And More! Exploring The Watery Wonderland Of The Biscayne National Park   95% of the Biscayne National Park has water. So, water activities and exploring the water ecosystem are the most amazing things about the place.   You can go canoeing on the open water across the coastal line and reach the stretches of mangroves. Further, you can explore the artificial islands by canoeing and kayaking.   However, to have the most amazing canoeing experience and paddle with the current, you must get a tide table for the visitor center first.   So, let’s start paddling and kayaking!  Jones Lagoon Eco-Adventure Clear Water Paddling  Fee: $109  Age Limit: 12+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 3.5 Hours  Get surrounded by the most amazing marine life during this clear water paddling trip. You will meet the sea turtles, Roseate Spoonbills, and baby sharks on your trip.   Kayakers also love the Jones Family Historic District and Lagoon because of its historic importance. It features on the National Register of Historic Places.  The Jones Family Historic District consists of Porgy Key and Totten Key. The Jones family stayed there during the 1800s and started growing limes and pineapples.   Also, in the early 20th century, they sold their property stretching over a whopping 277 acres and became millionaires. It was a rare incident then in this part of the world for an African American to have this fortune.   Debris Cleanups with Guided Jones Lagoon Paddle  Fee: $50  Age Limit: 12+  Duration: 6 Hours  How about enjoying the beauty and diversity of Biscayne National Park and contributing to its conservation simultaneously?   This debris cleanup and Jones Lagoon paddle trip involves cleaning the debris across the mangrove coastal line and enjoying a relaxing paddle through Jones Lagoon.  At the end of the trip, you will return to the Dante Fascell Visitor Center and unload the debris.   Kayak the Mangroves  Fee: $39  Age Limit: 6+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 1.5 Hours  The mangrove stretch at Biscayne National Park is home to many animals. It is also one of the longest bordering mangrove stretches on the left of the eastern shoreline of the United States.   So, it’s time to meet the tree crabs, fish, animals, and snakes residing in the mangroves. The best part of this tour is that it is partially guided.   The naturalist will guide you for the first half an hour, and from there, you can paddle on your own and take charge of how you want to enjoy the trip.   Sail, Paddle, And Snorkel At Biscayne National Park  Fee: $209  Age Limit: 8+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 6 Hours  This trip involves exploring through the mangrove forest, kayaking, and snorkeling. The trip starts from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center in Homestead.   Snorkel and Paddle  Fee: $209  Age Limit: 12+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 6 Hours  This snorkel and paddle trip at Biscayne National Park is the best to experience aquatic diversity. The rays, dolphins, and sea turtles  await to welcome you to their lives. Further, an encounter with the coral reef is going to be the best experience you can think of.   Also, if you are a birder, you cannot just miss the Roseate Spoonbills while padding. The mangrove forests stretching through the route once again speak of the biodiversity present in the park.  Your guide on the Captain of the National Park will explain the nature of the inhabitants, how they coexist, and the history of the place. It’s the best chef’s kiss you can expect on a trip.   Kayaking Through The Seagrasses of Stiltsville  Fee: $109  Age Limit: 12+  Duration: 3 Hours  Must-Have: Prior Kayaking Experience  As you paddle through the water, the Stiltsville houses on the seagrass banks will be your roadmap to history. This ride is also about the most delightful encounter with the wildlife at Biscayne National Park.   You will even learn why these seagrass banks are important for the ecosystem of the national park. Do you have this thing for everything quaint? The sunken barge on this route stands as a remarkable piece of eulogy.   For the trip, you will start from Coconut Grove and  kayak to the bay to start paddling.   You Can’t Miss The Third Longest Coral Reef At The Biscayne National Park   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYQB3CXCZDA Biscayne National Park promises you a kaleidoscopic experience with the third-longest coral reef in the world. The living coral reef, with its rhythmic movements and embrace of the pork fish and nurse sharks, presents an unforgettable visual experience. The soft corals in the reef dance to the current and create movements.   It’s mesmerizing to know how the polyps make the most beautiful structures by collecting calcium from seawater. In some parts, the coral reef looks like the most vivacious flowers, and in other parts, it will appear like elk antlers or mountains.   On and around the reef, you will also come across the following creatures:  Sea fans  Sea whips  Bright sponges  Christmas tree worms  Fish, shrimps, crabs (They visit to eat the algae gathered on the coral reef.)  Overall, it’s a rainbow of colors with red, purple, orange, and green dominating the spectrum.   How To Visit Biscayne National Park?  You can visit the Dante Fascell Visitor Center of the Biscayne National Park from the US Highway 1 (from north and south) or the Florida Turnpike (from north).   Reaching The Biscayne National Park From North  From Florida Turnpike  First, choose exit 6.  Then, reach the exit ramp and take a left turn to continue moving south to SW 328th Street.   Now, take a left turn on the 328th Street.  Further, drive for four miles to reach the end of the road.  Find the park entrance on your left.  From The US Highway 1  You have to drive south toward Homestead, take SW 137th Avenue, and turn left. You will reach SW 328th Street after a five-mile drive. From here, you will have to take a left turn and drive for four miles. Once you get to the end of the road, you will find the park entrance on your left.   Reaching The Biscayne National Park From South  You can reach the Biscayne National Park from US Highway 1 while traveling from the south.   Then, drive north and reach Homestead. There, you take a right turn on SW 344th Street. Further, continue for four miles until the road near the Homestead Speedway takes a northern turn.   Next, reach the SW 328th Street and head east. Now, you will have to drive for four miles to reach the end of the road. The entrance of the Biscayne National Park will be on your left.   Fun Facts About The Biscayne National Park   The series of sandy, low-lying, and small islands here are known as keys.  Eliott Key is the largest key or island in the Biscayne National Park.  Boca Chita Key is the most popular island here. Also, it is known for its 65-foot lighthouse constructed in the 1930s.   See You There!  Biscayne National Park is a destination that will spoil you with choices. The kayaking and canoeing activities are there, and you can also take a deep dive to have a one-on-one with the fascinating marine life.   If you want more outdoor pursuits in the water, you can try swimming and fishing.   Further, the park does not disappoint wildlife lovers and tourists who love exploring history. The Jones Family Historic District at the park features on the National Register of Historic Places.   Also, the dolphins, birds, turtles, and fish are there to offer you the most amazing wildlife experience.   And the list is endless! The things to do and see at the Biscayne National Park! So, let’s quickly wrap up my guide and plan a visit to the park. See you there soon!   Biscayne National Park FAQ  What Is Biscayne National Park?  Biscayne National Park in Florida is one of the most visited National Parks in America. It is known for its diverse ecosystem and historical importance. Further, it has the third-largest coral reef in the world.   How Do I Access Biscayne National Park?  You can reach Biscayne National Park through US Highway 1 or the Florida Turnpike if you are driving from the north. If you are traveling from the south, you will have to take US Highway 1.  What Activities Can I Do at Biscayne National Park?  At Biscayne National Park, your outdoor pursuits are going to be endless. You can enjoy the following activities.  Snorkeling  Diving   Kayaking  Paddling   Exploring the mangroves  Visiting coral reefs  The park also offers opportunities to experience the best marine life by observing manatees, sea turtles, and various marine creatures.  What Landmarks Can Be Found In Biscayne National Park?  Biscayne National Park has the following landmarks.  Maritime Heritage Trail  Stiltsville  Living Coral exhibit at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center  Is There Scuba Diving At Biscayne National Park?  Yes, you can do scuba diving in clear waters at Biscayne National Park. You will  encounter coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and shipwrecks while scuba diving.   When Did Biscayne National Park Become A National Park?  In 1968, Biscayne National Park was established as a national monument. Years later, in 1980, it got the designation of a National Park.   Also read Enjoy The Best Amusement Park In Cancun. The 4 Best Parks In Cancun You Have To Visit. 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