Animals To See

ANIMALS TO SEE

Morocco is a country known for its rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the vast Sahara desert, Morocco is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including many endangered species. Here are some of the animals to see in Morocco and where to find them:

Barbary Macaque The Barbary Macaque is a species of monkey that is found in the Atlas Mountains and Rif Mountains of Morocco. These monkeys are known for their distinctive appearance, with a long tail and shaggy fur. Unfortunately, the Barbary Macaque is listed as an endangered species due to habitat loss and hunting. The best place to see them is in the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains, including the Ifrane National Park.
Cuvier’s Gazelle The Cuvier’s Gazelle is a small and graceful antelope that is endemic to North Africa. They are found in arid and semi-arid regions of Morocco, including the Souss-Massa National Park and the Oued Dahab-Lagouira region. Unfortunately, the Cuvier’s Gazelle is also listed as an endangered species due to habitat loss and hunting. Efforts are being made to conserve this species through breeding programs and the establishment of protected areas.

3. Northern Bald Ibis The Northern Bald Ibis is a critically endangered bird that is found in Morocco and a few other countries in North Africa and the Middle East. These birds are known for their distinctive bald head and long curved bill. They were once widespread in Morocco, but their numbers have declined dramatically due to habitat loss, hunting, and pesticide use. The best place to see them is in the Souss-Massa National Park, where a conservation program is underway to save this species.

4. Atlas Mountain Viper The Atlas Mountain Viper is a venomous snake that is found in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. These snakes are known for their striking colours, with a pattern of yellow, black, and red bands. Although they are venomous, they are not aggressive and will usually only attack if provoked. The Atlas Mountain Viper is not currently listed as an endangered species, but its habitat is under threat from human activities such as logging and grazing.

5. Saharan Cheetah The Saharan Cheetah is a critically endangered subspecies of cheetah that is found in the Sahara desert of North Africa, including parts of Morocco. These cheetahs are adapted to the harsh desert environment, with a lighter coat and longer legs than other cheetahs. The Saharan Cheetah is facing numerous threats, including habitat loss, poaching, and conflict with humans. Unfortunately, there are only an estimated 250 individuals left in the wild, making them one of the rarest carnivores in the world.

6. Addax The Addax is a critically endangered antelope that is found in the Sahara desert of North Africa, including parts of Morocco. These antelopes are adapted to the desert environment, with long, spiralled horns and a pale coat that helps reflect sunlight. The Addax is one of the most endangered antelopes in the world, with only a few hundred individuals left in the wild. They are threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and competition with domestic livestock.

7. African Wild Dog The African Wild Dog is a highly endangered species that is found in scattered populations throughout sub-Saharan Africa, including parts of Morocco. These dogs are known for their distinctive spotted coat and highly social behaviour. They are facing numerous threats, including habitat loss, hunting, and disease. The best place to see them in Morocco is in the M’goun National Park, where a small population still survives.

8. North African Elephant

The North African Elephant, also known as the Atlas Elephant, was once found throughout North Africa, including Morocco. However, due to habitat loss and hunting, they are now considered to be extinct. The last confirmed sighting of a North African Elephant in Morocco was in 1935.

9. Mediterranean Monk Seal

The Mediterranean Monk Seal is a type of seal that is found in the Mediterranean Sea, including along the coast of Morocco. They are considered to be critically endangered due to hunting, pollution, and habitat loss. The Mediterranean Monk Seal is a solitary animal that spends much of its time in the water, coming ashore only to rest and give birth.

10. The Atlas Bear

The Atlas Bear was a subspecies of the brown bear that was once found in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, as well as in other parts of North Africa. They were a large and powerful animal, with males weighing up to 660 pounds. The Atlas Bear was known for its distinctive pale-yellow fur, which made it highly prized by hunters.

Unfortunately, the Atlas Bear is now considered to be extinct. The last confirmed sighting of an Atlas Bear in Morocco was in the 1870s, and the species was declared extinct in the 1890s. The exact reasons for the extinction of the Atlas Bear are not known, but it is believed to have been caused by habitat loss, hunting, and competition with humans for food.

Today, there are no wild bears in Morocco, and the only bears you are likely to see in the country are in zoos and animal sanctuaries. However, the legacy of the Atlas Bear lives on in the culture of the region. The bear was an important symbol in Berber mythology, and its image can be found in art and architecture throughout Morocco.