“The Little Five” are some of the tiniest animals found in Zambia. Although small in size, they play important roles in the African ecosystem . Each corresponds to one of the Big Five – but in name only!
Antlion
Like its namesake, the antlion in its larval stage, is a fierce predator that digs a pit in sandy soil to trap ants and other small insects, snapping them up with its large, sickle-like jaws (hence the “lion” in its name). As an adult, it resembles a dragonfly.
Leopard Tortoise
The fourth-largest species of tortoise in the world, it is named for the distinctive, leopard-like spot pattern on its shell. It is a master of survival thanks to that shell that can stand up any predator bite and even being stepped on by an elephant! It’s no wonder some leopard tortoises live for over 100 years.
Elephant Shrew
According to genetic studies, the elephant shrew is actually related, albeit distantly, to its huge namesake. They have long, flexible trunk like snouts that they use to hunt for insects. Most of them weigh less than a pound and only live for about two years.
Buffalo Weaver
The buffalo weaver gets it name from its habit of following buffalo herds and feeding on the insects disturbed by their larger namesakes. They’re very social birds that build large “condominium” nests shared by a number of families.
Rhinoceros Beetle
This little beetle gets its name from the horn like projections on its head that is often used in battles – over females, of course! They are small, but mighty, considered on the proportionately strongest creatures on the planet.