mauritania

Mauritania Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in Mauritania

Mauritania, a country known for its vast desert landscapes and stunning coastline, is also home to a unique and diverse range of wildlife. From the majestic Sahara desert to the rich wetlands of the Senegal River, Mauritania offers a habitat for a variety of fascinating animals.

Embark on a journey to discover the incredible wildlife of Mauritania. Encounter the graceful addax, a critically endangered antelope that roams the desert regions with its distinctive twisted horns. Marvel at the sight of the dama gazelle, another endangered species, gracefully navigating the arid landscapes. Keep an eye out for the elusive African wildcat, a small and agile predator that calls the desert and savannah home. And don't forget to look to the skies, where you may catch a glimpse of the striking Egyptian vulture, a bird of prey that soars above the desert dunes. Join us as we explore the captivating world of animals that call Mauritania home.

Mammals of Mauritania

In the arid expanses of Mauritania, a country graced by the vast Sahara Desert, one can find an array of resilient mammals that have adapted to the harsh environment. The Dorcas gazelle, a small and elegant antelope, roams the sparse vegetation, perfectly adapted to the scarcity of water. The Fennec fox, with its distinctive large ears, is another desert dweller, nocturnal and elusive. In the skies, the Mauritanian fruit bat takes flight at dusk, playing a crucial role in pollination. Along the Atlantic coast, the Atlantic humpback dolphin can occasionally be spotted, gracing the waters with its presence. These mammals, among others, are the living treasures of Mauritania's diverse wildlife.

Birds of Mauritania

Mauritania, a country with a rich tapestry of avian life, is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The Banc d'Arguin National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly renowned for its flocks of migratory birds, including the flamboyant Greater Flamingo and the regal Eurasian Spoonbill. The park's expansive mudflats and shallow coastal waters provide a perfect stopover for these birds on their arduous journey between Europe and Africa. In the Saharan habitats, one might spot the resilient Cream-colored Courser or the striking Blue-naped Mousebird. The skies above Mauritania are also graced by the presence of the powerful Martial Eagle and the nomadic African Collared Dove, offering a glimpse into the diverse birdlife that thrives in this West African nation.

Reptiles

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in Mauritania

  • Banc d'Arguin National Park, situated along the west coast of Mauritania, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich birdlife. This coastal park, with its sand dunes, coastal swamps, small islands, and shallow coastal waters, is a haven for migratory birds. Visitors can spot flamingos, pelicans, and a variety of waders and terns. The park is also home to the Atlantic humpback dolphin and the monk seal, although sightings of these marine mammals can be rare.
  • Diawling National Park, located in the southwestern corner of Mauritania near the Senegal River, offers a mix of wetlands and savannah. This park is particularly important for its bird populations, with species such as the African spoonbill, the purple heron, and the great egret. The park's wetlands also support West African manatees and Nile crocodiles.
  • The Gâat Mahmoûdé Reserve, in the northeastern part of the country, is a desert landscape where visitors can encounter desert-adapted species. The Dorcas gazelle and the Barbary sheep roam this arid terrain, while the Fennec fox and the striped hyena are elusive but present in the reserve.
  • The Aoukar Reserve, encompassing the Aoukar depression south of the Tagant Plateau, is another area where wildlife enthusiasts can observe desert species. The reserve is home to the addax, a critically endangered desert antelope, and the dama gazelle. The Saharan cheetah, although extremely rare and elusive, is also a resident of this stark landscape.

Where to next? Discover country icon Western Sahara, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder