Mammals:
* Large Mammals: Elephants, Lions, Leopards, African Wild Dogs, Giraffes, African Buffalo, Hippopotamuses, Chimpanzees, Gorillas (in the Cross River National Park), Baboons
* Smaller Mammals: Monkeys (various species), Antelopes (various species), Gazelles, Warthogs, Hyenas, Cheetahs, Pangolins, Wild Cats, Porcupines, Rodents (rats, mice, squirrels)
Birds:
* Birds of Prey: Eagles, Vultures, Hawks, Owls
* Other Birds: Hornbills, Parrots, Kingfishers, Bee-eaters, Sunbirds, Weavers, Storks, Herons, Flamingos, Pelicans, Ostriches
Reptiles:
* Snakes: Pythons, Cobras, Mambas, Vipers
* Lizards: Chameleons, Monitor Lizards, Geckos, Skinks
* Turtles: Freshwater turtles, Sea turtles (on the coast)
Amphibians:
* Frogs: Various types of frogs and toads
Fish:
* Freshwater Fish: Catfish, Tilapia, Carp
* Marine Fish: Various types of fish found in the Atlantic Ocean along the coast
Insects:
* Butterflies: Numerous species, including the African Swallowtail
* Beetles: Diverse types, including the Goliath Beetle
* Ants: Many species, including the Army Ant
* Termites: Important for the ecosystem and a food source for many animals
Other:
* Arachnids: Spiders, scorpions
It's important to note that the distribution of these animals varies across the country. Some animals, like elephants, are found primarily in protected areas like national parks. Others, like monkeys, are more common in forested regions.
Threats to Wildlife:
The Nigerian wildlife population faces numerous threats, including:
* Habitat Loss and Degradation: Due to deforestation, urbanization, and agriculture
* Poaching: Illegal hunting for bushmeat and ivory
* Climate Change: Impacts ecosystems and food sources
Protecting Nigeria's diverse wildlife is crucial for biodiversity conservation and the long-term health of the environment.