Discover the animals that live in our desert
The desert of Mhamid El Ghizlane is home to remarkable Saharan wildlife, including animals adapted to heat, drought and the challenging conditions of the desert environment. Among the dunes, arid plains and natural areas of the region, several species continue to live and contribute to the richness of this ecosystem.
The emblematic animals of our region include the dromedary, the fennec fox, the houbara bustard, the red-necked ostrich, the dorcas gazelle and the addax. Some of these species are elusive or rare and benefit from conservation and reintroduction programmes.
The dromedary is one of the most iconic animals of Mhamid El Ghizlane. It has been part of desert life for generations and is perfectly adapted to Saharan conditions. Thanks to its hump, long legs and ability to withstand heat, it can travel long distances across the dunes and arid plains. It continues to accompany local people and visitors on desert treks and camel caravans.
The fennec, also known as the desert fox, is one of the characteristic animals of the Saharan environment around Mhamid El Ghizlane. This small mammal is easily recognised by its very large ears, which help regulate its body temperature. Mainly active at night, it feeds on insects, small animals and plants. Elusive and difficult to spot, it finds shelter in burrows dug into the sand.
The houbara bustard is an iconic bird of the desert and semi-desert areas of Mhamid El Ghizlane. Its sand-coloured plumage helps it blend into its surroundings. It feeds on seeds, plants, small insects and other food available in the desert. This elusive species is sensitive to disturbance and is among the birds whose protection is important for preserving the biodiversity of our region.
The red-necked ostrich is the largest living bird. It is characterised by its long neck, long legs and inability to fly. It is a very fast runner and is adapted to the vast open spaces of the desert. Once extinct in the wild in Morocco, it is now the subject of a reintroduction programme in the Mhamid El Ghizlane region. Its return represents an important step towards restoring local Saharan wildlife.
The dorcas gazelle is an emblematic animal of Mhamid El Ghizlane, where gazelles have long been part of the region's natural heritage. It lives in desert plains, areas with sparse vegetation and open spaces throughout the region. Recognisable by its slender body, long legs and speed, it feeds mainly on plants, grasses and leaves. This vulnerable species benefits from conservation efforts and initiatives to strengthen its populations in its natural habitat.
The addax, also known as the white antelope, is a large antelope perfectly adapted to the extreme conditions of the Sahara. It has long, twisted horns and a light-coloured coat that helps it cope with the heat. As a herbivore, it feeds on desert plants and can survive for long periods without drinking water. After disappearing from the wild in Morocco, this endangered species has become the subject of a reintroduction programme in the Mhamid El Ghizlane region, contributing to the return of large Saharan wildlife.
The wildlife of Mhamid El Ghizlane is a valuable part of our natural heritage. The dorcas gazelle, red-necked ostrich and addax are among the species benefiting from conservation and reintroduction initiatives in the region. Protecting their habitats, combating poaching and respecting natural areas are essential to preserving these species. Every visitor can contribute to these efforts by respecting the animals and their environment.
Discover the dunes, oases and Saharan landscapes of Mhamid El Ghizlane with Mhamid Trekking. Explore a desert rich in natural and cultural heritage.
Contact UsLocated in the province of Zagora, in south-eastern Morocco, Mhamid El Ghizlane is a remarkable Saharan region known for its dunes, arid plains and natural areas. Its environment is home to wildlife adapted to the difficult conditions of the desert, including heat, drought and limited water resources.
The dromedary, fennec fox, houbara bustard, dorcas gazelle, red-necked ostrich and addax are all associated with the natural richness of this region. Some animals are difficult to observe in their natural habitat, while others benefit from conservation, monitoring and reintroduction programmes designed to restore Saharan biodiversity.
The Mhamid El Ghizlane nature reserve plays an important role in preserving this natural heritage. Efforts to protect the dorcas gazelle, red-necked ostrich and addax contribute to the return of several emblematic species to the desert landscapes.
Discovering the wildlife of Mhamid El Ghizlane also means understanding the fragility of the Saharan ecosystem and the importance of protecting animals, plants and natural areas for future generations.
