There are 11 national parks spread across the country, but there is also much forest outside these reserves.This West African nation has a long Atlantic coastline and a range of habitat types, with a corresponding diversity of plants and animals. Liberia is considered a biodiversity hotspot and has more intact forests characteristic of the Upper Guinea Massif than the other parts of this forest that still stand (in neighbouring countries). There are 2000 species of vascular plants (including 225 tree species), approximately 140 species of mammals, and over 600 species of birds.

The pygmy hippopotamus lives in riverine forests inland, for example those beside the Lofa, Cestos and Cavalla Rivers. Liberia is its main habitat, with smaller populations in neighbouring countries. The African manatee also occurs along the coast and in many of the river systems. Other mammals found in the forests include leopards, monkeys, chimpanzees, antelopes, elephants and anteaters. The Liberian mongoose is probably the rarest mammal, though it may be extinct, having not been seen in the wild since 1989. The red river hog is much more common.

Sapo National Park hosts around 125 species of mammal. These include the African golden cat, the drill, seven species of monkey, Gola malimbe and the Liberian mongoose. The park is also home to the African civet, giant forest hog, speckle-throated otter, seven species of duiker, the water chevrotain and three species of pangolins.

National Parks

• Cestos-Sankwen
• Lofa-Mano
• Sapo
• Tienpo

Nature Conservation Units

• Cape Mount
• Wologizi
• Wonegizi Liberia

National Forests

• Belle
• East Nimba
• Gibi
• Gio
• Gola
• Grebo
• Kpelle
• Krahn Bassa
• Lorma
• National Forest Name Unknown (LBR) No.1
• National Forest Name Unknown (LBR) No.2
• North Gio
• North Lorma
• West Nimba
• Yomo

Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar)

• Lake Piso

Cloud Forest Sites

• Mount Nimba