Capital

Maseru

Official Language(s)

Sesotho, English, isiXhosa, isiPhuthi, & Lesotho Sign Language

Fun Fact

Known as the "Kingdom in the Sky," it is the only independent nation on earth to lie entirely above 1,000 meters in elevation

National Animal

Black Rhinoceros

National Bird

Southern Bald Ibis

Add a PDF file and cover image

Animal Laws of Lesotho

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

Animals of Lesotho

Southern Bald Ibis

IUCN Red List: Near Threatened

The Southern Bald Ibis is a distinctive bird found in grasslands, savannas, and mountainous regions of southern Africa. It is recognized by its glossy black plumage, long curved bill, and bare red face and head. These social birds forage in groups, feeding on insects, small reptiles, and other invertebrates. Habitat loss, poisoning, and collisions with power lines have contributed to declines in some populations.

Common Eland

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Eland is the largest antelope in the world, found in grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands across eastern and southern Africa. Despite its massive size, it is an agile animal capable of jumping surprisingly high. Elands feed on grasses, leaves, fruits, and shrubs and often travel in herds. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in a variety of habitats, making them one of Africa’s most widespread antelope species.

Sloggett's Vlei Rat

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

Sloggett's Vlei Rat is a small rodent found in the high-altitude grasslands and wetlands of southern Africa. Adapted to cool mountain environments, it feeds on grasses, roots, and other plant material. This species plays an important role in its ecosystem by aerating soil through its burrowing activities and serving as prey for a variety of predators. Its specialized habitat makes it vulnerable to environmental changes and habitat disturbance.

Chacma Baboon

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Chacma Baboon is the largest baboon species and is found in savannas, woodlands, and mountainous regions of southern Africa. Highly intelligent and adaptable, it lives in large social groups and feeds on fruits, seeds, roots, insects, and small animals. Chacma Baboons are known for their complex social behavior and ability to thrive in a wide range of habitats, including areas close to human settlements.

Drakensberg Rockjumper

IUCN Red List: Near Threatened

The Drakensberg Rockjumper is a colorful bird found only in the high-altitude rocky slopes of the Drakensberg Mountains. It is recognized by its gray plumage, chestnut underparts, and long black tail. Unlike many birds, it spends much of its time hopping among rocks in search of insects and other small invertebrates. Its limited range makes it especially vulnerable to habitat changes and climate change.

Caracal

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Caracal is a medium-sized wild cat found in savannas, grasslands, deserts, and woodlands across Africa and parts of the Middle East. It is recognized by its sleek reddish-brown coat and distinctive black ear tufts. A powerful and agile predator, the caracal is capable of leaping high into the air to catch birds in flight and also hunts small mammals and reptiles. Its adaptability has allowed it to thrive in a wide range of habitats.