When people think of African wildlife, majestic animals like the lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard often come to mind. These are the Big Five, known for their strength, beauty and the excitement they bring to any safari. But Africa also has a group of animals that are often left out of the spotlight. They are not quite as glamorous, and their looks have earned them a rather unflattering nickname: the Ugly Five.
While they may not turn heads for the usual reasons, each of these animals plays a unique and important role in the wild.
The animals that make up the Ugly Five are the hyena, vulture, warthog, blue wildebeest and marabou stork. They might not be the most photogenic creatures in the bush, but they are certainly among the most fascinating. Each of them contributes something valuable to the environment, whether it’s cleaning up after other animals, shaping the landscape through grazing or keeping populations in check. Without them, the balance of nature would shift in ways we might not even realise.
Meet the Ugly Five
Hyena
Often misunderstood, the hyena is a highly intelligent and social animal. While many think of them only as scavengers, hyenas are actually skilled hunters with strong family structures. A single hyena’s bite is powerful enough to crush bone, making them efficient recyclers of nutrients in the ecosystem.
Vulture
With their bald heads and hunched posture, vultures may not be easy on the eyes, but they are vital for keeping the bush clean. By feeding on carcasses, vultures help prevent the spread of diseases. Interestingly, vultures have exceptional eyesight, which helps them locate food from great heights where they can soar for hours without flapping their wings.
Warthog
With their unmistakable facial warts and impressive tusks, warthogs are masters of survival in the African savannah. They often kneel on their front legs to feed and will quickly dash into burrows backwards when threatened. Warthogs are known to be fast runners, capable of reaching speeds of around 50 kilometers per hour when threatened.
Blue Wildebeest
Known for their awkward looks and clumsy gait, blue wildebeest are one of the most important grazers in Africa. They migrate in large herds and play a major role in shaping grassland ecosystems. Despite their appearance, they are strong runners and excellent team players when it comes to avoiding predators.
Marabou Stork
With a featherless head, scruffy feathers and a long, heavy bill, the marabou stork has earned a reputation as one of the least attractive birds around. But their diet of waste and carrion makes them essential in limiting disease. These large birds can stand over 1.5 metres tall and are incredibly efficient scavengers.
Taking a closer look at Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate
At Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate, wildlife is part of everyday life, and that includes two members of the Ugly Five. Both warthogs and blue wildebeest can be spotted roaming freely across the open plains of the estate. Watching a family of warthogs trot along the road or seeing a herd of wildebeest grazing in the distance is a gentle reminder that every animal has its place and purpose in the wild.
These animals may not fit the traditional image of African beauty, but their quirky features and fascinating behaviours make them a joy to observe. At Likweti, we celebrate all creatures great and small, whether they are fierce, feathered or simply a little funny-looking.
