Skip to content Skip to footer

Savanna

Savanna Habitat

Savannas are expansive grasslands dotted with scattered trees and shrubs, forming a unique ecosystem that supports a rich diversity of wildlife. These habitats are shaped by seasonal rainfall, with distinct wet and dry periods that influence animal behavior and plant growth. Found across tropical and subtropical regions, savannas are home to some of the world’s most iconic animals, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, and large herds of grazing herbivores.

Savannas act as a transition between dense forests and arid deserts, creating a balanced mix of open spaces and tree cover. This ecosystem plays a crucial role in supporting herbivores that depend on grasses, as well as predators that rely on these herbivores for food. Fire, drought, and grazing are natural processes that shape the landscape, maintaining the delicate balance of the savanna.

According to the IUCN Red List, savannas can be categorized into two main types:

  • Savanna – Dry – Characterized by low rainfall and extended dry seasons, dry savannas have sparse tree cover and support drought-resistant plant species. Animals here have adapted to survive long periods without water.
  • Savanna – Moist – Receiving higher rainfall than dry savannas, moist savannas have denser vegetation, with more trees and grasses. These areas support a wider range of herbivores and predators.

Savannas are vital to global biodiversity, but they face threats from habitat destruction, agriculture, and climate change. Conservation efforts focus on protecting these landscapes and the unique species that depend on them.