The fauna of southern Africa, like the landscapes and vegetation, is hugely diverse. Most people are well aware of the spectacular wildlife of this part of the world, but few know of the wonders of some of the region's small animals and insects.

Bataleur, Terathopius ecaudatus, pair mating. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa

Male Namibian Rock Agama, Agama planiceps, on granite with a San rock engraving of a gemsbok. Near Kamanjab, Namibia

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Eland, Taurotragus oryx, with young. Lotheni, KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg, South Africa

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Caracal, Felis caracal, and Molesnake, Pseudaspis cana, prey. West Coast National Park, Western Cape, South Africa

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Cheetah, Acinonyx jubatus, hunting Springbok, Antidorcas marsupialis. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa

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A Lion, Panthera leo, in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa

 

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A Male Orange-breasted Sunbird, Anthobaphes violacea, on Erica coccinea. Cape Peninsula, South Africa