What is South Sudan's National Animal?
The African Fish Eagle
Quick Species Overview
Why is the African Fish Eagle the National Animal of South Sudan?
The African Fish Eagle is recognised as the national animal of South Sudan, where it represents the country's landscape and identity. The fish eagle stands atop South Sudan's coat of arms with wings spread. As a bird, the African Fish Eagle features in South Sudan's folklore, national seals and public monuments, where it is credited with traits of endurance, independence and pride.
Across national holidays, sovereign heraldry, and public monuments, the African Fish Eagle stands as a beloved guardian representing the courage and identity of South Sudan.
Key Wildlife & Ecological Facts
Its scientific name is Haliaeetus vocifer.
The African Fish Eagle is a bird recorded across South Sudan's national parks and protected areas, and South Sudan uses it as a shorthand for the country's natural heritage.
Conservation groups in South Sudan use the African Fish Eagle in education campaigns, which is part of why it has stayed in public view for so long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official national animal of South Sudan?
The official national animal of South Sudan is the African Fish Eagle (scientific name: Haliaeetus vocifer).
Why was the African Fish Eagle chosen as the symbol of South Sudan?
The African Fish Eagle is recognised as the national animal of South Sudan, where it represents the country's landscape and identity. The fish eagle stands atop South Sudan's coat of arms with wings spread. As a bird, the African Fish Eagle features in South Sudan's folklore, national seals and public monuments, where it is credited with traits of endurance, independence and pride.
Is the African Fish Eagle endangered?
The conservation status of the African Fish Eagle is currently recognized as Least Concern.
What is the scientific name of the South Sudan national animal?
The African Fish Eagle is Haliaeetus vocifer. It is classified as a bird in Africa.
Is the African Fish Eagle the only national animal in Africa?
No. The African Fish Eagle is used by 3 countries in total: South Sudan plus Zambia, Mali.
Can you guess South Sudan on the 3D globe?
Test your geography skills in today's daily puzzle. Guess countries by their national animal clues with thermal distance feedback.
Other countries that chose the African Fish Eagle
The African Fish Eagle is the national animal of 3 countries in total, not just South Sudan. That overlap is common in heraldry, where neighbouring states and former colonies often share a symbol taken from the same regional tradition.