Capital

N'Djamena

Official Language

French & Arabic

Fun Fact

Often called the "Dead Heart of Africa" because it’s entirely landlocked and sits deeply within the Sahara

National Animal(s)

Lion & Goat

National Bird

Sahelian Violet Turaco

Add a PDF file and cover image

Animal Laws of Chad

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

Animals of Chad

Black Crowned Crane

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The Black Crowned Crane is an elegant and charismatic bird found in the wetlands, grasslands, and savannas of West and Central Africa. Easily recognized by its striking golden crown of stiff feathers, black-and-white plumage, and graceful movements, this species is often seen in pairs or small groups foraging for seeds, insects, and small animals. As a symbol of beauty and resilience, the Black Crowned Crane plays an important role in wetland ecosystems and highlights the importance of conserving Africa’s diverse habitats.

Sahelian Violet Turaco

IUCN Red List: Near Threatened

The Violet Turaco is a vibrant forest bird native to the tropical woodlands and forests of West Africa. Known for its brilliant violet-blue plumage, vivid crimson wing feathers, and distinctive crest, this striking species spends much of its time moving through the canopy in search of fruits, flowers, and leaves. An important seed disperser, the Violet Turaco helps maintain healthy forest ecosystems while showcasing the remarkable beauty and diversity of Africa’s birdlife.

Kordofan Giraffe

IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered

The Kordofan Giraffe is a rare and endangered subspecies of giraffe found in scattered populations across Central Africa. Distinguished by its irregularly shaped chestnut-brown patches and towering height, this gentle browser feeds on leaves, buds, and shoots from a variety of trees. As an important seed disperser and shaper of vegetation, the Kordofan Giraffe plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems while serving as a symbol of the need to protect Africa’s threatened wildlife.

African Leopard

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

African Leopards are powerful and adaptable big cats found across a wide range of habitats, from dense forests and mountains to savannas and deserts. Recognized by their golden coats covered in distinctive rosette-shaped spots, these solitary predators are renowned for their stealth, strength, and ability to haul prey high into trees. As apex predators, African Leopards play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and are among the most iconic symbols of Africa’s wild landscapes.

Nile Monitor

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Nile Monitor is one of Africa’s largest and most impressive lizards, inhabiting rivers, lakes, wetlands, and savannas across much of the continent. Known for its powerful body, sharp claws, and keen intelligence, this skilled predator feeds on fish, insects, birds, eggs, and small mammals. An excellent swimmer and climber, the Nile Monitor plays an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and is a fascinating example of Africa’s reptile diversity.

West African Lion

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The West African Lion is a critically endangered population of lion found in a few remaining protected areas across West Africa. Genetically distinct from many other African lion populations, these powerful predators play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by regulating herbivore populations. With habitat loss, declining prey, and human-wildlife conflict threatening their survival, the West African Lion has become an important symbol of wildlife conservation in the region.