Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, buffalo)

The Big Five refers to five large African animals—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo—that are prized by photographers and hunters for their size, power, and difficulty to hunt or observe safely. Lions are social predators known for their strength; leopards are stealthy, agile cats; rhinoceroses are massive herbivores with thick skin; elephants are intelligent, social giants with impressive tusks; and buffalo are robust, herd animals with formidable horns. These species symbolize Africa’s wildlife richness and are often key indicators of ecosystem health.