The term “Big Five” (the ‘Big 5’) was coined by big-game hunters of old, and refers
to the five wild animals of Africa that were originally most sought after by Trophy
hunters. The term is still very common, and is used in most bush / safari destinations
where the Big 5 can be found.
The collection consists of the Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard and (Black) Rhinoceros;
chosen for the difficulty in hunting them and not for their size, and more so because
these are among the most dangerous mammals to pursue in the African wilds.
Of Interest:
The Cape Buffalo (scientific name Syncerus caffer) can be very intimidating. It
is considered the most dangerous of the Big 5 with the longest list of attributed
Trophy hunters’ deaths. They are definitely bovine characters, but also primal and
with devilish appearance at times. South African Rand banknotes feature a different
Big 5 animal on each denomination.
Now that you know what the Big 5 is what about the 'Little Five'?
A fun definition incorporating the names of the Big 5 in five smaller animals, namely:
the Antlion, Leopard Tortoise, Elephant Shrew, Rhinoceros Beetle, and Red-billed
Buffalo Weaver.