Stephanie Wildlife Sanctuary, Wildlife refuge in Southern Nations region, Ethiopia
Stephanie Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in southern Ethiopia surrounding Lake Chew Bahir, characterized by acacia bushland and dense thickets. The refuge encompasses varied habitats that support diverse animal populations and includes river systems that provide water sources.
The sanctuary was established in 1973 to protect the river watersheds of the region and preserve its wildlife. It was created to maintain the natural balance of an ecologically important area.
Local communities have lived alongside wildlife in this region for generations, adapting their pastoral practices to the semi-arid landscape. Visitors can observe how people and animals coexist within the same ecosystem in daily life.
Visitors need a permit from regional authorities to enter the area and should prepare for semi-arid conditions. The best time to visit is during cooler months when animals are more active and conditions are more comfortable.
The area is home to an important population of Grevy's zebras, distinguished by their exceptionally narrow stripes compared to other zebra species. This specialized zebra has adapted over millennia to the dryness and sparse vegetation.
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