![]() ![]() As such, leopard skin is often worn by Zulu royalty. To them, the large cat symbolizes courage, power, and nobility. Ndebele, Siswati, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu: Ngwe, Ingweįun fact: Now you know what a leopard is in African languages-but did you know that the Zulu people refer to the leopard (or “ ingwe”) as a totem animal? Their strength is also the origin of many hunting myths and legends. A herd of Cape buffalo is capable of fending off a pride of lions, earning them a spot in the Big Five. Buffaloįun fact: A buffalo is one of Africa’s most dangerous animals, according to hunters and African locals. ![]() This suggests that the lion is, without a doubt, the king of the jungle (or savanna). The animal is also referred to as “ ibubesi”, which comes from the verb “ bhubeza” meaning ‘to make the final decision’. Lionįun fact: Lion in Zulu- ngonyama-means “ the master of all flesh”. This is also a popular Zulu clan name (often spelled “ Ndlovu”). Elephantįun fact: ‘Elephant’ in Ndebele, Siswati, Xhosa, and Zulu is “ Ndhlovu”. So, while the giraffe in Ndebele in South Africa is “ Htundla”, it is also known as “ Intundla” in Zimbabwe. Giraffeįun fact: The Ndebele language is split into two-Northern Ndebele (spoken primarily in Zimbabwe) and Southern Ndebele (spoken in parts of South Africa). Whether it’s the majestic lion, elusive leopard, or mischievous vervet monkey, you’ll leave with a wealth of knowledge surrounding their African names. Highly recommended! Learn Shona, Zulu, and Ndebele Animal Names, Etc.įor those wanting to dive a little deeper, let’s take a look at some of Africa’s most beautiful animals. This edition offers up-to-date information on identification through signs. This compact field guide to the identification of Southern African mammals based on their spoor, droppings, and skulls is widely accepted as the standard work on the subject. NB: Some of the names come from Clive Walker’s book “Signs of the Wild”. ![]() ( Right-click and “Save Link As…” to save it to your computer) While the table is far from complete, it gives a good overview of common African animal names. Translations include Afrikaans, Nama/Damara, Ndebele, Shona, Siswati, Swahili, Tswana, Venda, and Zulu. With the following table, you’ll be able to identify the most common animals of the African bush in local languages. List of Animal Names in Local African LanguagesĮver wanted to find out what the striped zebra is in Ndebele or even the spotted leopard in Zulu? Read on and gain a fresh perspective on the deep connection that African people have with the natural world.Īs a bonus, there is also a downloadable PDF listing many more African animals. Whether Ndebele, Swahili, Shona, Venda, or Zulu, African languages are full of colorful and evocative words that truly capture the essence of the continent’s beautiful wildlife.Įach name holds a story, a myth, or a legend that adds to the cultural heritage of the countries and local people who use it. So, no matter where you visit in Africa, you’ll know the local lingo. ![]() In this guide, discover common safari animal names in African languages. If you’re on the hunt to improve your safari vocabulary, then you’re in luck! ![]()
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