Because of the damp misty atmosphere here, mosses, ferns, orchids and lichens flourish. Mosses and ferns have no flowers but are propagated by spores. The beard-like lichens which hang from the trees are a strange combination of fungus and algae in such intimate association that the combination is classified as a distinct species. They are not parasitic but merely perch on their hosts. The agricultural settlement which can be seen bordering the Park is a reminder of how vulnerable protected areas in Africa are to increasing human numbers and demand for land.
Several birds soar high on updraughts of warm air around the crater rim.
The Verreaux's eagle is a large black eagle with the center of the back and rump white. These magnificent raptors nest in large nests on cliff edges at the beginning of the rainy season. The peregrine falcon is a bird of prey recognized by its streamlined build and pointed wings, as well as its dark brown crown and black mustache patches. As the two tracks around the crater do not join up, it is necessary to retrace your route back to Ngurdoto Gate before exploring more of the Park. Special Thanks to Thomson Safaris and Tanzania National Parks for contributing Tanzanian information.