©Photo Credit Juliet Fourie

Fauna – Wildlife of the Marico

The Marico’s wild heart beats through its diverse animal life. While large predators are elusive and rare, the region is teeming with smaller mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and free-roaming antelope that make for rewarding game-viewing and nature walks.

Mammals commonly spotted include

Kudu, Nyala, Bushbuck, and Impala – often seen browsing along riverbanks and in thickets

Warthog and Porcupine are active at dawn and dusk.

Vervet Monkeys and Chacma Baboons are protected by the CITES convention.

Leopard, Caracal, Brown Hyena and Aardwolf – shy, nocturnal, and seldom seen but still roam the area

Leopards and Brown Hyenas are threatened species

Small carnivores like Genet, Civet, and the charismatic Honey Badger

The region also supports a vibrant population of nocturnal species, including Bush Babies, Owls, and the occasional Pangolin sighting—a rare and magical encounter for the lucky few.

Reptiles and amphibians such as geckos, agamas, skinks, terrapins, and frogs thrive in the wetland and riparian zones, contributing to the region’s delicate ecological balance.