Capital

Nouakchott

Official Language

Arabic

Fun Fact

Home to the "Eye of the Sahara"

Unofficial National Animal

Saharan African Wildcat

National Bird

None

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Animal Laws of Mauritania

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

Animals of Mauritania

North African Ostrich

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The North African Ostrich is the largest living bird and is found in the grasslands, savannas, and semi-arid regions of North Africa. Recognized by its long neck, powerful legs, and impressive speed, it can run at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. North African Ostriches feed on seeds, grasses, flowers, and insects and play an important role in dispersing seeds across their habitat. Once widespread, the subspecies has declined significantly due to hunting and habitat loss.

African Wildcat

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The African Wildcat is a small wild feline found in savannas, grasslands, and deserts across much of Africa. It resembles a domestic cat and is believed to be the ancestor of modern house cats. African Wildcats are solitary hunters that feed on rodents, birds, reptiles, and insects, helping control pest populations. Their adaptability has allowed them to thrive in a wide range of habitats.

African Spurred Tortoise

IUCN Red List: Endangered

The African Spurred Tortoise is the largest tortoise species native to mainland Africa. Found in the dry grasslands and semi-deserts of the Sahel region, it is recognized by its large size, sandy-colored shell, and prominent spurs on its hind legs. These long-lived herbivores feed on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation and often dig burrows to escape extreme heat. Habitat loss and collection for the pet trade have contributed to declines in some wild populations.

Striped Hyena

IUCN Red List: Near Threatened

The Striped Hyena is a medium-sized carnivore found in deserts, grasslands, and scrublands across North and East Africa as well as parts of Asia. It is recognized by its shaggy gray coat, black stripes, and long mane, which can be raised when threatened. Primarily a scavenger, it feeds on carrion, small animals, and fruit, helping keep ecosystems clean by consuming animal remains. Striped Hyenas are usually solitary and are most active at night.

Mediterranean Monk Seal

IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered

The Mediterranean Monk Seal is one of the world's rarest marine mammals, found along the coastlines of the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the eastern Atlantic Ocean. It is recognized by its sleek body, short flippers, and pale belly. These seals feed on fish, squid, and octopus and often rest in secluded sea caves and remote beaches. Habitat loss, human disturbance, and entanglement in fishing gear have made the Mediterranean Monk Seal endangered.

Golden Nightjar

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Golden Nightjar is a beautifully camouflaged bird found in the dry savannas and semi-desert regions of North and West Africa. Its golden-brown, intricately patterned plumage helps it blend almost perfectly with sandy ground and leaf litter. Active mainly at night, it feeds on flying insects caught in flight. During the day, it relies on its remarkable camouflage to avoid predators.