Capital

Banjul

Official Language

English

Fun Fact

The Gambia is one of only two countries in the world to officially include "The" in its name

National Animal

Spotted Hyena & African Lion

National Bird

None

Add a PDF file and cover image

Animal Laws of Gambia

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

Animals of The Gambia

Guinea Baboon

IUCN Red List: Near Threatened

The Guinea Baboon is a social primate found in the savannas, woodlands, and forests of West Africa. It is recognized by its reddish-brown fur, long mane, and dog-like muzzle. Guinea Baboons live in large, complex groups and feed on fruits, seeds, roots, insects, and small animals. Their adaptability and strong social bonds have helped them thrive in a variety of habitats.

Western Red Colobus

IUCN Red List: Endangered

The Western Red Colobus is an endangered monkey found in the forests of West Africa. It is recognized by its reddish-brown fur, long tail, and leaf-based diet. Living in large social groups, these monkeys spend most of their time high in the forest canopy, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers. Habitat loss and hunting have caused significant declines in their population.

Common Warthog

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Common Warthog is a wild pig found in grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands across sub-Saharan Africa. It is recognized by its large curved tusks, facial warts, and bristly mane. Warthogs feed mainly on grasses, roots, fruits, and other plant material, often grazing on their knees. Fast and adaptable, they use abandoned burrows for shelter and can outrun many predators despite their stocky build.

African Fish Eagle

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The African Fish Eagle is a large bird of prey found near rivers, lakes, and wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa. Recognized by its white head, dark body, and powerful hooked beak, it feeds primarily on fish caught from the water's surface. Its distinctive, ringing call is one of the most iconic sounds of the African wilderness. As a top predator, the African Fish Eagle plays an important role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems.

Spitting Cobra

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Spitting Cobra is a venomous snake found across parts of sub-Saharan Africa. Unlike most snakes, it can accurately spray venom toward the eyes of a threat from several feet away, causing intense pain and potential blindness if left untreated. Spitting Cobras feed on rodents, birds, reptiles, and amphibians and play an important role in controlling pest populations. Despite their dangerous reputation, they generally prefer to avoid confrontation and use venom spraying as a defensive tactic.

Goliath Heron

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Goliath Heron is the largest heron species in the world, found in wetlands, rivers, lakes, and coastal areas across sub-Saharan Africa. Standing over four feet tall, it is recognized by its chestnut-colored neck, gray wings, and massive spear-like bill. Goliath Herons feed primarily on fish, patiently stalking prey in shallow water before striking with remarkable speed and precision. Despite their size, they are often solitary and elusive birds.