Capital

Lilongwe

Official Language

English & Chichewa

Fun Fact

Lake Malawi is home to about 1,000 species of cichlid fish; more than all the freshwater fish species in North America and Europe combined

National Animal

Thomson's Gazelle

National Bird

African Fish Eagle

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Animal Laws of Malawi

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

Animals of Malawi

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 helps maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems.

Zebra Mbuna

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

Zebra Mbuna is a colorful freshwater cichlid found in the rocky shores of Malawi's Lake Malawi. Known for its striking blue coloration and bold territorial behavior, it feeds primarily on algae and small invertebrates scraped from rocks. Like many cichlids from Lake Malawi, Maylandia zebra exhibits complex social behaviors and is popular among aquarium enthusiasts for its vibrant appearance and active personality.

Yellow Baboon

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Yellow Baboon is a widespread primate found in savannas, woodlands, and grasslands of eastern Africa. It is recognized by its yellowish-brown fur, long muzzle, and strong social structure. Yellow Baboons live in large troops and feed on fruits, seeds, grasses, insects, and small animals. Highly adaptable and intelligent, they thrive in a variety of habitats and play an important role in their ecosystems as both seed dispersers and prey for large predators.

Sable Antelope

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Sable Antelope is a striking antelope found in woodlands and savannas of southern and eastern Africa. It is known for its glossy dark coat, white facial markings, and long, curved horns, which are present in both males and females. Sable Antelopes feed on grasses and live in herds led by dominant females. Their impressive appearance and agility make them one of Africa's most iconic antelope species.

Black Rhinoceros

IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered

The Black Rhinoceros is a large herbivore found in savannas, grasslands, and shrublands of eastern and southern Africa. Despite its name, it is gray in color and is distinguished by its pointed upper lip, which is adapted for browsing on shrubs and trees. Black Rhinos are generally solitary animals and play an important role in shaping vegetation within their habitats. Poaching for their horns and habitat loss have made them critically endangered, though conservation efforts have helped some populations recover.

Nile Crocodile

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Nile Crocodile is one of the largest reptiles in the world and is found in rivers, lakes, wetlands, and estuaries across much of Africa. A powerful predator, it feeds on fish, birds, mammals, and other animals, often ambushing prey at the water's edge. Nile Crocodiles can grow over 16 feet long and are known for their strong jaws and remarkable patience while hunting. As apex predators, they play an important role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems.