Africa’s Little 5 & Ugly 5

Many African safari-goers know they want to see the Big Five in the wild, but we often forget about some of the smaller and less-admired species that are equally fascinating. While the Cape buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhinoceros are all widely known and cherished, how much do you know about the continent’s other wild inhabitants? Focus your attention on the incredible critters that comprise Africa’s Little Five, all named after their larger counterparts: the antlion, buffalo weaver, elephant shrew, leopard tortoise and rhinoceros beetle. Next, don’t avert your eyes from the continent’s Ugly Five—the hyena, marabou stork, vulture, warthog and wildebeest—all of which are actually quite interesting, despite their unappealing appearances. Expedition Leaders Matt Meyer and Richard de Gouveia will share fascinating insights into these 10 intriguing but often under-appreciated animals, drawing from their many years of field experience leading safaris in search of wildlife both large and small. You will come away with a newfound appreciation for each of these unique creatures and the important roles they play within African ecosystems.


Originally presented June 23, 2021

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