Morocco’s Diverse Wildlife
Morocco’s geographical location, bridging Europe and Africa with coastlines on both the Atlantic and Mediterranean, creates diverse ecosystems. This diverse landscape, encompassing arid deserts, rugged mountains, and lush forests, fosters an exceptionally rich array of animal life. Its varied habitats contribute to high biodiversity, making it a home to numerous species adapted to these distinct environments. Morocco ranks among the countries with notable fish diversity, and its fauna boasts a high rate of endemism compared to other Mediterranean nations.
Morocco’s Terrestrial Mammals
Morocco is home to 92 species of wild terrestrial mammals. Among the most recognizable is the Barbary Macaque (Macaca sylvanus), the only macaque species found in Africa. These primates inhabit fragmented areas across the Rif, Middle, and High Atlas Mountains, thriving in cedar forests and mixed holm oak woodlands, often at elevations between 1,200 and 2,000 meters. Their numbers have faced declines due to habitat loss and other human pressures.
Various gazelle species also populate Morocco’s arid and semi-arid landscapes. The Dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas) is a relatively small and common gazelle found in grasslands, steppes, wadis, and desert or semi-desert climates. These gazelles are well-adapted to dry conditions, capable of deriving all necessary moisture from the plants they consume.
Other mammals include the Fennec fox (Vulpes zerda), known for its unusually large ears and its adaptation to the deserts of North Africa. This smallest canid species is found throughout the Sahara, from Morocco eastward to the Sinai Peninsula, inhabiting sandy areas with sparse vegetation. Wild boars are also present, often found in forested and scrubland areas, and the Barbary sheep (Ammotragus lervia) inhabits the rocky mountainous regions. The Barbary leopard’s (Panthera pardus panthera) current presence is debated, with some considering it critically endangered or possibly extinct in the wild.
Avian and Reptilian Diversity
Morocco’s skies and diverse terrains support a wide array of bird and reptile species. Over 490 bird species have been recorded. A particularly notable species is the Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita), a critically endangered bird with a significant wild population concentrated in southern Morocco. These glossy black ibises nest on coastal or mountain cliff ledges, feeding on lizards, insects, and small animals.
Morocco’s reptilian fauna is also rich, with over 116 recorded species, including many adapted to arid and semi-arid environments. Common types include various lizards, such as geckos like the Moorish wall gecko (Tarentola mauritanica) and chameleons. Several species of snakes are present, including the puff adder (Bitis arietans) in the south. Tortoises, such as the Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca), are also part of Morocco’s reptilian diversity. Over one-fourth of its herpetofaunal species are endemic.
Coastal and Aquatic Inhabitants
Morocco’s extensive Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, along with its inland freshwater systems, support diverse aquatic life. The country’s marine waters are home to a variety of fish species, contributing to Morocco’s high global ranking in fish diversity. Marine mammals, including whales and dolphins, traverse Moroccan waters.
Sea turtles are also present, with loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) being the most common species encountered. Green and leatherback turtles also frequent Moroccan coasts. Morocco’s freshwater ecosystems, including rivers and oases, contain approximately 55 species of fish, with 19 endemic ones.
Protecting Unique Moroccan Wildlife
Morocco’s rich biodiversity faces threats, with over 600 endangered species identified. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these unique and threatened species. The Barbary Macaque is classified as endangered by the IUCN, with conservation projects aiming to safeguard its populations. The Northern Bald Ibis, despite its critically endangered status, has seen its population increase due to dedicated conservation efforts, particularly within the Souss-Massa National Park.
Morocco has established ten national parks and classified 24 humid zones under the Ramsar list to protect habitats and species. These protected areas provide a framework for in-situ conservation. Rehabilitation programs for endangered species, including gazelles and antelopes, are also being implemented. The Rabat Zoo participates in breeding and reintroduction programs for species like the Northern Bald Ibis and desert antelopes.