African Elephant
2.3× youElephant
Taller than two 10-year-olds
Photo: Gyps_rueppellii_-Nairobi_National_Park,_Kenya-8.jpg: Jorge Láscar from Bogotá, Colombia derivative work: Snowmanradio (talk) (CC BY-SA 2.0)
3 featured species · 3 habitat zones
Animals of Kenya
Kenya is full of incredible animals living in its vast landscapes. From the sweeping savannas to the towering mountains, many creatures call this place home. You might see majestic elephants, tall giraffes, or speedy cheetahs. Each of these animals plays a special role in the wild world of Kenya!
Featured Species
Habitat Zones
Savanna
The savanna is a wide, open grassland with few trees, where the sun shines brightly and animals roam free. It's famous for its stunning sunsets and the Great Migration of animals.
African lion, Elephant, Cheetah, Zebra
Mountain
Mountain areas in Kenya are cool and misty, with steep slopes covered in forests. It's a place where you'll find some of the highest peaks in Africa and unique animals.
Mountain gorilla, Colobus monkey, Hyrax
Coastal Area
Kenya's coast is lined with sandy beaches and coral reefs, home to fascinating sea creatures and lush mangroves.
Sea turtle, Reef fish
How Big Are They?
Each animal shown next to a 10-year-old (🧒) at true scale.
Lion
85% of youLion
As tall as a tall 10-year-old when sitting
Giraffe
3.6× youGiraffe
Almost five times the height of a 10-year-old
Where to Spot Them
African Elephant
Look in: Throughout savanna regions
Watch for: Elephants live in family groups led by the oldest female, the matriarch.
Lion
Look in: Masai Mara National Reserve
Watch for: Lionesses do most of the hunting while males protect the pride.
Giraffe
Look in: Nairobi National Park
Watch for: A giraffe's height helps it spot predators from a distance.
Cultural Connection
In Kenya, elephants are highly respected and have deep cultural significance. Many local communities have folk tales about elephants and their intelligence.
Vocabulary
Did you know that both elephants and giraffes have long lifespans, but elephants can live up to 70 years while giraffes live up to 25 years?