Meanwhile, back in Africa…
After a sleepless night (my roommate snored like a buzz saw) and a strong cup of African-grown coffee,
we headed out to Kruger National Park just after dawn in a “game viewing vehicle” driven by our Afrikaans host and local guide, Olaf. Even before entering the park, we saw many animals along the way, including elephants & giraffes. The poaching of both these species , as well as both black & white rhinos, is a major concern by conservationists and African governments alike….and measures have been taken everywhere to discourage the widespread slaughter. The areas where these animals live is vast, so anti-poaching efforts are mostly ineffective. Not only is the wildlife being killed and tourism impacted, the money made from the sale of ivory & horn often funds terrorist groups. Bad business all around!!
On a brighter note, there are still a LOT of wonderful animals of every stripe (inc. zebras!) roaming free in southern Africa..especially in the enormous area set aside in Kruger. Above is a small sampling of what we saw there. ( More pix will follow in a separate email.)
During the dry season, the best viewing spots are above the watering holes throughout the park. In just an hour’s time, we watched wave after wave of animals cautiously approach the water to take a long cool drink.
A couple of lions were within attacking range, but apparently weren’t in “hunt-mode” as they dozed contently in the shade nearby.
Kruger Park is home to more than 500 species of birds and ~ 150 kinds of mammals..plus many types of reptiles, including the infamous Nile crocodile which can grow to 20 feet long.
We saw a few smaller crocs sunning by a waterhole, but they blend into the surroundings
so well that I wasn’t able to get a good photo of them. Guess I’ll just have to go back!
Stay tuned for more.
Dab's Travelogue 