The Rare And Endemic Samburu Special 5
The “Samburu Special 5” refers to five unique animal species found in Samburu National Reserve in Kenya: the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. These animals are not typically found in the southern reserves of Kenya, making Samburu a special destination for wildlife viewing.
Samburu National Reserve hosts a distinctive assemblage of fauna referred to as the Samburu Special Five, comprising rare and endemic species predominantly located in the arid, semi-arid terrains of northern Kenya. In contrast to the renowned Big Five seen throughout Africa, the Samburu Special Five are endemic to this region, rendering a safari in Samburu an exceptionally distinctive experience for wildlife aficionados.
The Samburu Special Five includes:
- Grevy’s Zebra (Equus grevyi)
- Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa reticulata)
- Beisa Oryx (Oryx beisa beisa)
- Gerenuk (Litocranius walleri)
- Somali Ostrich (Struthio molybdophanes)
This guide offers comprehensive information on each species, including their traits, conservation status, and locations inside Samburu National Reserve.
1. Grevy’s Zebra (Equus grevyi) – The Endangered Striped Icon
Key Features
✔ Larger and taller than the common plains zebra.
✔ Has narrow, closely spaced black-and-white stripes that do not extend to the belly.
✔ Larger, round ears compared to other zebra species.
✔ More solitary than plains zebras—often seen in smaller groups.
Habitat & Behavior
✔ Found near rivers, dry grasslands, and acacia woodlands.
✔ They rely on permanent water sources like the Ewaso Ng’iro River.
✔ Unlike plains zebras, they can survive longer without water.
Conservation Status & Threats
✔ Endangered – Only about 3,000 individuals remain worldwide.
✔ Threats: Habitat loss, competition with livestock, and poaching.
✔ Conservation efforts in Kenya and Ethiopia are helping protect them.
📌 Best Place to See Them in Samburu: Along the riverbanks and open plains early in the morning.
2. Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa reticulata) – The Most Beautiful Giraffe
Key Features
✔ Has a striking coat pattern of large, polygonal patches with white lines.
✔ Darker and more defined markings than the Masai giraffe.
✔ Taller than most giraffes, reaching up to 5.7 meters (18 feet).
Habitat & Behavior
✔ Found in dry savannas, acacia woodlands, and riverine forests.
✔ Feed primarily on acacia leaves using their long, prehensile tongues.
✔ Often seen in small herds, particularly near the Ewaso Ng’iro River.
Conservation Status & Threats
✔ Endangered – Less than 16,000 remain in the wild.
✔ Major threats include habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal hunting.
📌 Best Place to See Them in Samburu: Near acacia woodlands and riverbanks, especially during early morning and evening game drives.
3. Beisa Oryx (Oryx beisa beisa) – The Desert Antelope
Key Features
✔ Large antelope with straight, spear-like horns (both males and females).
✔ Grayish-brown coat with distinctive black-and-white facial markings.
✔ White underbelly and black stripe along its flanks.
Habitat & Behavior
✔ Prefers semi-arid grasslands and open plains.
✔ Can survive long periods without drinking water, obtaining moisture from plants.
✔ Live in small herds of 5-20 individuals led by a dominant male.
Conservation Status & Threats
✔ Near Threatened – Populations declining due to poaching and habitat encroachment.
✔ Conservancies in Samburu help protect them by creating safe wildlife corridors.
📌 Best Place to See Them in Samburu: Open plains and dry scrublands far from dense vegetation.
4. Gerenuk (Litocranius walleri) – The Long-Necked Antelope
Key Features
✔ Known for its long neck and slender legs, giving it a unique appearance.
✔ Can stand on its hind legs to reach higher leaves, unlike any other antelope.
✔ Small head with large eyes and ears, making it highly alert.
Habitat & Behavior
✔ Prefers dry thornbush, scrublands, and acacia forests.
✔ Feeds exclusively on leaves and flowers, never needing to drink water.
✔ Often seen alone or in small groups rather than large herds.
Conservation Status & Threats
✔ Near Threatened – Populations declining due to hunting and habitat destruction.
✔ Protected in Northern Kenya’s conservancies to ensure their survival.
📌 Best Place to See Them in Samburu: Acacia forests and scrublands, especially in the Buffalo Springs area.
5. Somali Ostrich (Struthio molybdophanes) – The Blue-Necked Giant
Key Features
✔ Larger than the common ostrich, with bright blue neck and legs (males).
✔ Males have black-and-white feathers, while females are grayish-brown.
✔ Cannot fly but is the fastest-running bird (can reach 70 km/h or 43 mph).
Habitat & Behavior
✔ Found in open grasslands, dry plains, and semi-desert areas.
✔ Mainly herbivorous but occasionally eats insects.
✔ Often seen alone or in small groups, sometimes near zebra or antelope herds.
Conservation Status & Threats
✔ Vulnerable – Threatened by hunting for meat and feathers.
✔ Protected within Kenyan reserves and conservancies.
📌 Best Place to See Them in Samburu: Open grasslands and plains where they can run freely.
Why the Samburu Special Five Matter
✔ These species are rare and found only in specific parts of East Africa, making them a must-see for safari lovers.
✔ Their survival depends on conservation efforts in Northern Kenya.
✔ Unique adaptations make them fascinating to observe—such as the gerenuk’s ability to stand upright or the oryx’s heat resistance.
Where to See the Samburu Special Five in Samburu National Reserve
📍 Best Locations for Spotting Them:
✔ Ewaso Ng’iro River – Grevy’s zebra, giraffes, elephants, and crocodiles.
✔ Acacia woodlands – Reticulated giraffes and gerenuks.
✔ Dry scrublands & open plains – Beisa oryx and Somali ostrich.
✔ Buffalo Springs & Shaba Reserves – Great for spotting all five species.
