| Ruaha National Park | |
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| Location | Tanzania |
| Nearest city | Iringa |
| Coordinates | 7°30′S35°00′E / 7.500°S 35.000°E /-7.500; 35.000 |
| Area | 20,226 km2 (7,809 sq mi) |
| Established | 1964 |
| Visitors | 21,267 (in 2012[1]) |
| Governing body | Tanzania National Parks Authority |
Ruaha National Park is anational park inTanzania. In 2008, the Usangu Game Reserve and other important wetlands were added to the park, increasing its size to about 20,226 km2 (7,809 sq mi).
The park is about 130 kilometres (81 mi) west ofIringa. The park is a part of the 45,000 square kilometres (17,000 sq mi) Rungwa-Kizigo-Muhesiecosystem,[2] which includes theRungwa Game Reserve, the Kizigo and Muhesi Game Reserves, and the Mbomipa Wildlife Management Area.[3]
The park's name is derived from theGreat Ruaha River, which flows along its southeastern margin and is the focus of game-viewing. The park can be reached by car on a dirt road from Iringa, and there are two Airstrips –Msembe Airstrip at Msembe (park headquarters) and Jongomeru Airstrip, near the Jongomeru Ranger Post.[2]
During the dry season from May to October, the park experiences hot and dry weather with little to no rainfall. Temperatures can reach 35 °C (95 °F) during the day. Night temperatures drop to around 20 °C (68 °F). The vegetation in the park becomes dry, and rivers and water sources dwindle.[citation needed]
Germany gazetted the Saba Game Reserve in 1910.British colonial authorities changed the name to the Rungwa Game Reserve in 1946.[2] In 1964, the southern portion of the reserve was excised and elevated to full park status.[2]
More than 571 species of birds have been identified in the park. Among the resident species arehornbills.[2] Many migratory birds visit the park.[2]
Other noted animals in this park areEast African cheetah,[4]East African lion,African leopard,wild dog,spotted hyena,giraffe,hippopotamus,African buffalo, andsable antelope.[2][5]
Since 2005, the protected area has been considered aLion Conservation Unit.[6]
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