The flora and fauna of Ruaha National Park
The Geography : At the centre of the Park is the Ruaha River which flows into the Rufiji River in the Selous, and on to the Indian Ocean. A number of smaller, seasonal rivers all flow into the Ruaha, including the Mzombe and the Mwagusi, forming an important and visually stunning setting. Complimenting this picture are the many low hills and the escarpment that is really a part of the Rift Valley. Between this and the plateau that rises in the southwest and runs all the way towards Lunda in the north, is the low lying bush at Ruaha's heart.
The Habitat : Much of this area is combretum, acacia and commiphora woodland, combining with the mosaic of riverine habitats that characterize the many watercourses. This central valley is covered by numerous Baobab Trees and the four distinctive main ecological and vegetation zones that occur in the Park. The Ifuguru River where Kigelia Camp is located is a seasonal sand river. Along the river area are Baobab forests, Jackal berry Ebony, Sausage (Kigelia Africana), Tamarind, Acacia and Sycamore Fig Trees. From here there is a gradual change to Miombo woodland. This part of the Ruaha region has its own unique flora and fauna, dominated by the Brachystegia family. This makes for fascinating walking and driving country, and there is always good resident game in the area of camp.
The Wildlife : No other National Park in Tanzania has the diversity of Ruaha. Elephant in huge numbers are a common site, as the population seems to be growing. Giraffe are everywhere, as are the more common species such as Zebra and Impala. Both the Greater and Lesser Kudu occur here, as do the magnificent Eland, Sable and Roan antelope. The Ruaha River also provides an ecosystem on its own with its huge Nile Crocodiles, pods of Hippo and all the other smaller mammals, reptiles and creatures of interest.
Ruaha has an abundance of predators, It’s lion population is very healthy - it's not uncommon to see a pride with twenty or more members. Large male lions with spectacular manes are a common occurrence. The habitat is perfect for leopard and they are seen regularly in Ruaha with its rugged terrain and habitat. The African Hunting Dog also occurs in the Park although their huge ranges make them a little more difficult to find. The same is the case with Cheetah. The Hyena and Jackals are a common camp visitor and often heard after dark – the whooping call and cackling laughter often splitting the night, especially when near camp or traversing the area.
