Capital

Gitega & Bujumbura

Official Language

Kirundi, French, & English

Fun Fact

Burundi is the second-least urbanized country in the world

National Animal

Spotted Hyena & Transvaal Lion

National Bird

Great Blue Turaco

Add a PDF file and cover image

Animal Laws of Burundi

The Animal Laws of Burundi PDF contains the general animal protection laws and related statutes for Burundi. Uncaged World updates these bi-annually. Always check official sources for the most up-to-date legal status.

Animals of Burundi

Great Blue Turaco

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Great Blue Turaco is one of Africa’s most spectacular forest birds, found in the tropical rainforests of Central Africa. Distinguished by its brilliant blue plumage, elegant crest, and striking yellow bill, this large arboreal bird spends much of its time moving through the forest canopy in search of fruits, leaves, and flowers. As an important seed disperser, the Great Blue Turaco helps support forest regeneration and serves as a vibrant symbol of the rich biodiversity of Africa’s rainforests.

Transvaal Lion

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The Transvaal Lion, also known as the Southeast African Lion, is a large and powerful lion population found in southern Africa, including parts of South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Namibia. Males are often distinguished by their impressive dark manes, while prides occupy a variety of habitats ranging from savannas to semi-arid woodlands. As apex predators, Transvaal Lions play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and are among the most iconic symbols of Africa’s wild landscapes.

Eastern Chimpanzee

IUCN Red List: Endangered

The Eastern Chimpanzee is the largest subspecies of chimpanzee, inhabiting the forests and woodlands of central and eastern Africa. Highly intelligent and closely related to humans, these remarkable primates use tools, solve complex problems, and communicate through a wide range of vocalizations and gestures. Living in dynamic social communities, Eastern Chimpanzees play an important role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration, helping maintain the health and diversity of the ecosystems they call home.

Spotted Hyena

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Spotted Hyena is a highly intelligent and powerful predator found throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa. Recognized by its spotted coat, strong build, and distinctive vocalizations, this social species lives in complex groups called clans that can include dozens of individuals. Although often known as a scavenger, the Spotted Hyena is an exceptionally skilled hunter and plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by regulating prey populations and recycling nutrients through carrion consumption.

Blue Monkey

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Blue Monkey is an agile and social primate found in the forests and woodlands of central and eastern Africa. Despite its name, its fur is primarily gray with a subtle bluish tint and a distinctive dark face framed by lighter markings. Spending most of its time in the treetops, the Blue Monkey feeds on fruits, leaves, flowers, and insects, playing an important role in seed dispersal and the health of forest ecosystems. Its adaptability and complex social behavior make it a fascinating member of Africa’s rich primate diversity.

Hippopotamus

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The Hippopotamus is one of Africa’s largest and most recognizable mammals, inhabiting rivers, lakes, and wetlands throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its massive size, this semi-aquatic herbivore spends much of the day submerged in water to stay cool before emerging at night to graze on grasses. Hippopotamuses play a vital role in freshwater ecosystems by transporting nutrients between land and water, helping support the health and productivity of aquatic habitats.