5 Animals Found Only in Nigeria

Bashar Jelani Limanchi

2 weeks ago

Nigeria is home to several unique species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. These endemic animals play a crucial role in the country’s ecosystem but face significant threats from habitat loss and human activities. Here’s a look at five such species:

Ibadan Malimbe (Malimbus ibadanensis)
This bird is found exclusively in the forests around Ibadan. Known for its striking black and red plumage, it is highly vulnerable due to deforestation.

Niger Delta Red Colobus (Piliocolobus epieni)
This rare monkey is restricted to the swamp and mangrove forests of the Niger Delta. It faces severe threats from habitat destruction and human encroachment.

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Nigerian Puddle Frog (Phrynobatrachus nigeriensis)
A small frog found only in specific freshwater habitats in Nigeria. Limited research makes its conservation status uncertain, but habitat protection remains critical.

Sclater’s Guenon (Cercopithecus sclateri)
Native to southeastern Nigeria, this primate is easily recognizable by its distinct facial markings. It is endangered due to logging and agricultural expansion.

Nigerian Dwarf Crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis osborni)
A unique subspecies of the Dwarf Crocodile, it is smaller than most crocodiles and adapted to freshwater habitats. It faces risks from hunting and habitat loss.

Protecting these endemic species is essential to preserving Nigeria’s biodiversity. Conservation initiatives focusing on habitat restoration and stricter wildlife protection laws are critical to ensuring their survival.