Wildlife in Sudan

The republic of Sudan lies to the south of Egypt and in the minds of people from the West, Sudan is often associated with images from classic novels, describing vast wilderness. These images are always lively and the wild animals are numerous. However, the truth is that Sudan today is not a reliable sanctuary for wild life.

We don't call Sudan a rich country today, but the mineral resources are available in large quantities. Asbestos, chromite, cobalt, copper, gold, granite, gypsum, iron, kaolin, lead, manganese, mica, natural gas, nickel, petroleum, silver, tin, uranium and zinc are present and their exploitation is threatening the environment.

Desertification is a serious problem in Sudan. There is also concern over soil erosion. Agricultural expansion, both public and private, has proceeded without conservation measures. The consequences have manifested themselves in the form of deforestation, soil desiccation, and the lowering of soil fertility and the water table.

We cannot call Sudan a paradise for wild animals. The nation's wildlife is threatened by hunting. As of 2001, twenty-one mammal species and nine bird species are endangered, as well as two species of plants. Endangered species include: the waldrapp, Northern White Rhinoceros, Tora Hartebeest, Slender-horned Gazelle, and hawksbill turtle. The Sahara oryx has become extinct in the wild.

In May 2007, it was announced that hundreds of wild elephants had been located on a previously unknown, treeless island in the Sudd swampland region of southern Sudan. The exact location was being kept secret to protect the animals from poachers.

While there is still wild life in Sudan, you can use the international call services to see it by yourselves.