Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a spectacular natural wonder and a vibrant ecological hub. Its unique environment, shaped by the Zambezi River’s immense power, creates a diverse array of habitats. This supports an impressive variety of wildlife, making the area a significant biodiversity hotspot in Southern Africa.
Mammals of the Falls Region
The Victoria Falls vicinity is home to a wide range of mammal species, from large herbivores to elusive predators. African elephants, often seen in small herds, are regular visitors to both sides of the Zambezi River, frequently crossing to islands to feed on vegetation. Hippopotamus inhabit the calmer stretches of the river upstream from the falls, their presence often heard before they are seen. Buffalo also frequent the riverbanks in sizable herds.
Various antelope species thrive in the diverse terrains around the falls. These include waterbuck, known to graze near water sources, and bushbuck, commonly found within Victoria Falls Park and rainforest understory. Impala, kudu, common duiker, and zebra are prevalent, often seen grazing in open bush areas, golf courses, or within the Zambezi National Park. Smaller mammals like warthogs, baboons, and vervet monkeys are common sightings, with baboons being particularly accustomed to human presence near tourist areas.
Apex predators, while more elusive, are present in the broader Victoria Falls ecosystem. Lions are occasionally seen in the surrounding areas. Leopards, known for their solitary and nocturnal habits, inhabit dense woodlands and rocky regions. Cheetahs are rare but have been observed in Zambezi National Park, and spotted hyenas can often be heard at night. African wild dogs are also reported on the Zimbabwean side.
Birds of the Zambezi Sky
The Victoria Falls area boasts over 400 avian species. The Zambezi River acts as a vital corridor, attracting a diverse range of waterbirds and supporting a rich avian population in its riverine fringes. African fish eagles, with their distinctive call, are observed perched along the river, while Cape cormorants fly over the water.
The unique microclimate of the rainforest, sustained by the falls’ spray, provides habitat for species like Heuglin’s robin, Knysna turaco, and trumpeter hornbill. In the gorges below the falls, raptors like the Taita falcon, Verreaux’s eagle, and peregrine falcon breed, making the cliffs an important nesting ground. Malachite kingfishers, African skimmers, and various hornbill species are found in the surrounding woodlands. The summer rainy season brings an influx of migratory birds, including swallows and various cuckoos.
Reptiles, Amphibians, and Aquatic Life
The Zambezi River and its surrounding environs are home to a significant population of cold-blooded creatures. Nile crocodiles are abundant in the Zambezi River above the falls, frequently seen basking on riverbanks or lurking in the water. These formidable reptiles primarily feed on fish but also prey on animals that come to drink. The fast-moving waters directly below the falls generally do not support large crocodile populations until further downstream in the Batoka Gorge.
The region also hosts various snake species, though sightings are less common due to their elusive nature. The African python, Africa’s largest snake, has been recorded in Victoria Falls Park. Other reptiles include lizards, skinks, geckos, and tortoises like the Leopard tortoise. Amphibians, such as frogs, are present in humid environments, particularly within the rainforest, but are largely nocturnal.
The Zambezi River above Victoria Falls supports over 75 fish species. The falls act as a natural barrier, leading to distinct fish populations above and below them. Above the falls, popular angling species include the aggressive Tigerfish, Bream species, African Pike, and Barbel. Below the falls, species like the Vundu, a large catfish, and the Zambezi Electric Catfish are found, which are not present upstream.
Diverse Habitats Supporting Wildlife
The remarkable biodiversity around Victoria Falls is a direct result of its varied and interconnected habitats. The Zambezi River itself forms a crucial riverine ecosystem, providing permanent water, food sources, and corridors for many species. This riverine bush, including the vegetation on islands upstream, is a vital zone for numerous mammals and birds.
The constant spray from the falls creates a unique microclimate that sustains a lush rainforest ecosystem. This “rainforest” remains green throughout the dry season and supports a distinct flora, including ferns and specific tree species like mahogany and ebony, which provide habitat for insects, amphibians, birds, and smaller mammals. Beyond the immediate spray zone, the landscape transitions into mopane woodlands and open savannah. These drier woodlands and grasslands support large grazing animals like elephants, buffalo, giraffe, and zebra, along with various antelope species and their associated predators. The gorges below the falls constitute a distinct habitat, providing shelter and nesting sites for raptors.