Eco-Information on the Western Cape, South Africa.
Although large mammals, like rhinoceros, lion, elephant, buffalo and hippopotamus occurred in the Western Cape in the 17th and 18th century, these unfortunately had to make way for civilisation. A number of reserves in the Western Cape have reintroduced these animals. However, when in Fynbos one should 'think small'.

The small-leaved, low-growing vegetation with very few trees is not very nutritious for large grazing animals, and one would rather find small browsers. The animal life has been adapted to the harsh conditions of long, dry and hot summers, cold and wet winters, unpalatable plants and frequent fires.

Bontebok is the rarest antelope species in South Africa, and endemic to the Western Cape. Other animals include Grysbok, Steenbok, Duiker, Klipspringer, Grey Rhebuck, Cape Mountain Zebra, Leopard, Chacma Baboon, Cape Clawless Otter, Rock Hyrax, Porcupine, and a number of mongoose species.