Mount Kilimanjaro, a prominent African landmark, hosts diverse ecosystems across its slopes, from cultivated lower lands to an arctic summit. Kilimanjaro National Park, a wildlife reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans over 1,688 square kilometers, safeguarding the different forms of life found within its boundaries.
Forest and Lower Slopes Inhabitants
The cultivated lower slopes (800-1,800m) and the dense forest zone (1,800-2,800m) support the largest variety of animals on Kilimanjaro. These areas provide abundant resources, allowing for a rich biodiversity.
Various monkey species thrive here, including the blue monkey, which is often grey or black with a white throat, commonly seen in the rainforest zone and near Mandara Huts. Black-and-white colobus monkeys, recognized by their fluffy tails, are also prevalent in the rainforest zone, frequently observed along the Lemosho and Rongai routes.
Antelope species such as bushbucks, which have reddish-brown to grayish-brown coats with white spots and stripes for camouflage, inhabit these forested areas. Duikers, solitary antelopes, forage in the underbrush, with the endangered Abbott’s Duiker found in montane forests.
Larger mammals, including elephants, are occasionally observed on the northern and southern slopes, particularly along the Rongai route, though sightings are rare. Cape buffaloes also inhabit the lower forests, though they are not frequently seen.
The forest is home to mammals like the tree hyrax, a small nocturnal creature known for its distinctive shriek-like calls. Elusive serval cats, medium-sized wild cats with tawny, black-spotted fur, and nocturnal civets are also present. Bush babies, recognized by their human baby-like cries, are nocturnal creatures that jump between trees to catch insects. The Jackson’s chameleon, capable of changing color and moving its eyes independently, is another resident of the lower slopes.
Birdlife is abundant in the forest and lower slopes, with over 150 species recorded. Notable birds include the Hartlaub’s Turaco, with its bright green feathers and red wings, and the Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, an omnivorous bird found within the forest canopy. Pygmy kingfishers, white-cheeked barbets, and Narina Trogons also contribute to the vibrant avian diversity of this zone.
Wildlife of the Heath and Moorland Zones
Above the dense forests, the heath and moorland zones (2,800-4,000m) feature open, grassy, and shrubby landscapes. Animal life here is adapted to these exposed conditions, though it is less dense than in the lower forests.
Elands, large antelopes, inhabit this moorland zone, sometimes feeding on plants like the giant groundsels. Mountain reedbucks, medium-sized antelopes, graze on grasses and herbs. Grey duikers are also occasionally seen here.
Smaller mammals in this zone include various rodents, such as the four-striped mouse, which is larger than a typical house mouse and active during mornings and late afternoons, often sighted near campsites. Rock hyraxes, small furry mammals resembling guinea pigs, also reside in these areas. Mole rats find shelter among the giant groundsels.
Bird species in the heath and moorland zones are well-adapted to the exposed environment. The white-necked raven is a common scavenger, frequently seen at campsites due to its adaptability to higher altitudes. The malachite sunbird, with its shimmering green plumage, is found where lobelias and proteas grow, such as the Karanga Valley. Large birds of prey, like the Augur Buzzard, are often seen soaring at higher elevations, while the alpine swift thrives in the misty, cold conditions. The alpine chat, a small brown bird with white side feathers in its tail, also frequents the campsites.
Life in the Alpine Desert
The alpine desert zone (4,000-5,000m) presents a harsh environment for animal life, characterized by sparse vegetation, rocky terrain, significant temperature fluctuations, and little rainfall. Consequently, life is noticeably scarce compared to the lower altitudes.
Despite the challenging conditions, some hardy species survive here. Various insects and arachnids are present, demonstrating resilience. While less common, some sunbirds may be observed, adapting to available flora. Occasionally, resilient rodents or small antelopes might venture into these higher regions. The Lammergeier, also known as the bearded vulture, is one of the larger bird species found in this zone, navigating its expansive skies.
Animals of the Summit
The arctic summit zone (above 5,000m) represents the most extreme conditions on Mount Kilimanjaro. Characterized by ice and rock, with extremely cold nights and intense solar radiation, there is an almost complete absence of permanent animal life in this desolate landscape.
While large animals are virtually non-existent, some microscopic organisms and hardy lichens survive directly on the rock surfaces. Occasionally, a few insects, such as spiders or hardy flies, might be found. Transient birds, including the Augur Buzzard and Alpine Swift, may sometimes venture into the summit zone. The white-necked raven, known for its adaptability to high altitudes, can also be seen at campsites just below the summit.