Helmeted Guinea Fowl - Malawi

Portugal and Great Britain had an interest in gaining control over Malawi, but it was the British who proclaimed the area as the British Central Africa Protectorate. The colony was expanded and re-labeled as Nyasaland in 1907. It remained under British control until independence was granted on July 6, 1964.

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Numida meleagris - The helmeted Guinea fowl is the most widely distributed of the six species of Guinea fowl. It is a large bird, growing to heights of 50 centimeters. It has a distinctive black and white spotted plumage, short rounded wings, and a featherless, but colorful head. Males and females have large bony crests on their heads resembling a pointed helmet. Both sexes have red and blue wattles, folds of skin, hanging from their throat. Guinea birds are fast runners and prefer running away from danger rather than taking to the air.

Brown Greater Galago - Malawi

Otolemur crassicaudatus - Also known as bush babies, the brown greater galago is a nocturnal primate of Africa. It is the most abundant primate of Africa. The greater galago has adapted itself to foraging in the tree tops at night with over-sized eyes, excellent hearing, and a tail longer than the body to provide balance and to assist in jumping. Having powerful hind quarters, the greater galago can emulate a kangaroo by jumping from branch to branch or quickly escape potential threats when on the ground.

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The state of Maravi was established along the shores of Lake Malawi in the 16th century; the city of Manthimba served as the administrative center. The kingdom expanded its rule towards the eastern coast of Africa and as far south as the Zambezi River. Contact with Portuguese traders enriched the kingdom further as European and Asian goods were exchanged. The kingdom fell into decline during the 19th century. The British used the opportunity to incorporate Malawi into their African holdings.