Lions travel in groups called prides. Like many felines, they are largely inactive throughout the day, with short bursts of activity. They are especially dependent on preserves and confined captivity because they are predatory animals that could not coexist with humans otherwise. Other big cats on safari are leopards and cheetahs --- leaner, more solitary cats capable of incredible speed.
Closely related to horses and asses, zebras are distinct not only for their stripes but also for the fact that humans have never truly domesticated the species. Zebras are herd animals that migrate seasonally, making them a spectacular sight for tourists. Giraffes, the tallest living terrestrial animals, are actually closely related to cattle because they are ruminants. Both are highly visible on safari tours.
The African Elephant is the largest terrestrial mammal in the world, standing up to 13 feet tall and weighing 6.5 tons. Both African and Asian elephants are highly monitored and protected because they are poached to this day for their valuable tusk ivory. Outside of captivity, elephants are the most recognizable and popular safari animals besides lions.
Hyenas and buzzards are a common sight on safari, stalking and scavenging the hunting grounds of predatory animals such as the various big cats. Near river areas, large birds such as pelicans, storks and ibises congregate, along with crocodiles and the incredibly belligerent hippopotamus. The most visible ape species usually seen on safari is the baboon, which travels into the lowlands seasonally in clannish groups called troops.
