Capital

Lusaka

Official Language

English

Fun Fact

Home to "the smoke that thunders," locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or Victoria Falls

National Animal

African Fish Eagle

National Bird

African Fish Eagle

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Animal Laws of Zambia

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

Animals of Zambia

Hippopotamus

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The Hippopotamus is a large semi-aquatic mammal found in rivers, lakes, and wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its bulky appearance, it can move surprisingly fast on land and spends much of the day resting in water to stay cool. Hippos feed primarily on grasses and play an important role in freshwater ecosystems. They are among Africa’s most powerful animals and are known for being highly protective of their territory.

Kafue Lechwe

IUCN Red List: Endangered

The Kafue Lechwe is a graceful antelope found only in the floodplains of the Kafue Flats. Well adapted to wetland habitats, it has long legs and splayed hooves that allow it to move easily through shallow water. Kafue Lechwes feed mainly on grasses and aquatic plants and often gather in large herds. Habitat loss and changes to the natural flooding cycle have made this unique antelope vulnerable.

Cookson’s Wildebeest

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

Cookson's Wildebeest is a subspecies of blue wildebeest found primarily in the Zambia, especially in the Luangwa Valley. Recognized by its sturdy build, shaggy mane, and curved horns, it feeds mainly on grasses and often forms large herds. Cookson's Wildebeests play an important role in maintaining healthy grassland ecosystems and serve as a key prey species for predators such as lions and hyenas.

Thornicroft's Giraffe

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

Thornicroft's Giraffe is a rare giraffe subspecies found only in the Luangwa Valley of Zambia. It is recognized by its distinctive star-shaped coat pattern and feeds on leaves, flowers, and shoots high in the treetops. Isolated from other giraffe populations, Thornicroft's Giraffe is an important symbol of Zambia's unique wildlife and is protected through ongoing conservation efforts.

African Wild Dog

IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered

The African Wild Dog is a highly social carnivore found in the savannas, grasslands, and woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa. Recognized by its distinctive patchwork coat and large rounded ears, it lives and hunts in cooperative packs. African Wild Dogs are among the continent's most successful predators, relying on teamwork and endurance to catch prey. Habitat loss, disease, and human conflict have made them one of Africa's most endangered carnivores.

Southern Carmine Bee-eater

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Southern Carmine Bee-eater is a brilliantly colored bird found in the savannas, riverbanks, and open woodlands of southern Africa. Recognized by its vivid crimson plumage, turquoise head, and long tail streamers, it feeds mainly on bees, dragonflies, and other flying insects caught in midair. These social birds nest in large colonies, digging tunnels into sandy riverbanks, and are among Africa's most spectacular and colorful birds.