Volcanoes National Park

Animals of Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, with the most well-known being the mountain gorillas. These magnificent creatures live in family groups of about 10 individuals and can be found in the lush cloud forests of the Virunga Mountains. With only around 1000 mountain gorillas left in the wild, visitors to the park who go on gorilla trekking activities help to support conservation efforts.
In addition to the gorillas, there are also other animals to be seen in the park. Wild elephants, which can be found in the lower savannah area of Virunga National Park, occasionally wander into Volcanoes National Park, and large male tuskers are often spotted on the lower altitudes of the park. Cape buffaloes are also common sightings in the park, with groups of around 30 individuals residing there. Although they are known to be dangerous, there have been no accidents or fatalities involving buffaloes in the park.
The bamboo forests at lower elevations are home to troops of Golden Monkeys, consisting of up to 80 individuals. These primates have dark bodies with copper-gold colored backs, which inspired their name. The park offers visitors the opportunity to engage in Golden Monkey tracking activities to spend more time with these unique creatures.
Giant Forest Hogs, large black boars, can be found in central African forests. Typically living in herds of up to 20 animals, comprised mainly of females, their offspring and one male, these hogs are mostly active during the night. However, in the absence of human contact, they may become diurnal and forage over long distances, sometimes up to 8-12 kilometers. They are quite shy and rarely seen in the park.
Bush Pigs are common in bushlands and forests throughout Eastern and Southern Africa. They are nocturnal animals, adept at surviving in environments where predators are scarce and hunting is limited. Bushpigs use their sharp tusks for self-defense and may become dangerous if they feel threatened. They primarily feed on roots, seeds, and insects, but have been known to eat eggs and carrion on occasion.
Black-fronted Duikers are small antelopes, reddish-chestnut in color, with elongated hooves and long black or brown legs. Some individuals may have black hairs on their shoulders, making them distinct from other animals. They are most active during the day and can be found in open meadows searching for food. Sightings of these duikers are common in the park.
Bushbucks are one of the most widespread antelopes in Africa, recognizable by the white spots on their bodies. Males have impressive straight horns measuring up to 20 inches in length. Unlike other African antelopes, bushbucks are the least social and prefer to be solitary. They are commonly sighted in the park.
Leopards can be found across a wide range, from sub-Saharan Africa to Central Asia and India. However, their populations are threatened in some regions, especially outside of Africa. Leopards are skilled hunters and can drag large prey into trees to protect them from scavengers like hyenas. Their spotted coats provide excellent camouflage for surprise attacks on prey. Although leopards are shy animals, they are rarely spotted in the park.
Hyenas are the most common large carnivore in Africa and play a crucial role in maintaining balance in African ecosystems. The park is home to spotted hyenas, the largest of the three hyena species. They have a unique stocky build with a short torso and strong hindquarters, and their sharp night-time vision and hearing make them effective hunters at night. It’s important to appreciate their contribution to the ecosystem and take measures to protect their populations from declining.
Volcanoes National Park is also home to many Albertine Rift Endemic birds, which are unique to the area. Visitors to the park can enjoy the diverse wildlife and support conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats.