Origins & Destinations | African Safari I - Wildlife by Origins & Destinations

JULY 2024

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ORIGINS &

DESTINATIONS African Safari I wildlife

Wildlife

what to look for & fun facts about them

Photography

Tips

wildlife photography

Lodging

hand-picked safari accommodations

When in

Africa

all you need to know for an unforgettable safari

For

Kids

fun facts, games, stories, & more...

LivingNotes

LETTER

EDITOR

FROM

Tanzania and Kenya hold a special place in my heart as two of the most enchanting destinations on earth. The diverse landscapes, from the iconic Serengeti plains & the majestic Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania to the sprawling Masai Mara and the stunning Amboseli National Park in Kenya, have captivated me from the very first encounter. Each visit deepens my love and appreciation for their rich natural beauty and the incredible wildlife that calls these places home. In this special edition of Origins & Destinations Magazine, we are thrilled to share the magic of Tanzania and Kenya with you. We have curated an array of stories, breathtaking art photography, and insider tips to inspire and guide your own safari adventures. Whether you are an experienced traveler or planning your first journey into the wild, I hope these pages will transport you to the heart of Africa and kindle a deep connection with its wonders. Please, enjoy!

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* P l e a s e n o t e t h a t t h e l i g h t d i s t o r t i o n s v i s i b l e i n s o m e o f t h e i m a g e s a r e t h e by p r o d u c t o f t h e software used to create this editorial, & that they do not appear in the original pictures or prints.

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AFRICAN 9 WILDLIFE 4

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COVER IMAGE BY BOBBY AMIREBRAHIMI @POINTDEVUE.ART

MASTHEAD & C O N T R I BU TO R S OLYA HILL

EDITOR IN CHIEF & PHOTOGRAPHER

BABAK AMIREBRAHIMI EDITOR & PHOTOGRAPHER

HELLO@ONDTRAVELGROUP.COM +1 (415) 653-9054

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S A FA R I & WILDLIFE

W H E N IN A F R I C A

W H ATTO K N O W CHECKLIST P L AY L I S T

O U R S P O N S O R 51 TAASA LODGE O U R

AFRICAN WILDLIFE W I L D L I F E T O L O O K F O R W H E N O N S A FA R I & F U N FA C T S A B O U T T H E M

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PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS:

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

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F O R F U N FA C T S , G A M E S , & STORIES...

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ORIGINS

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THE ORIGINS

SAFARI The Call of the Wild: Early Beginnings

The word “safari” originates from the Swahili language, meaning “journey.” Its roots are deeply embedded in the Arabic term “safar,” which also means journey. This linguistic lineage hints at the ancient connections between Arabian traders and the East African coast, where they embarked on long voyages across vast, untamed landscapes. These early safaris were far from the luxurious expeditions we envision today; they were grueling treks undertaken for trade, survival, and exploration. The Age of Exploration: Adventure & Discover y The concept of safari as we know it began to take shape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during the Age of Exploration. European explorers like David Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley ventured into the African interior, driven by a thirst for discovery and a desire to map uncharted territories. Their journeys were perilous, fraught with disease, wild animals, and challenging terrain. Yet, these explorers’ accounts of their adventures captivated the imagination of the Western world, igniting a fascination with the African wilderness.

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The Hunting Era: From Survival to Sport By the late 19th century, safaris had evolved into hunting expeditions, primarily for big game. Wealthy adventurers from Europe and America traveled to Africa in search of elephants, lions, and other majestic creatures. Figures like Theodore Roosevelt and Ernest Hemingway are iconic in this era, bringing back tales of their daring hunts and encounters with Africa’s wildlife. These hunting safaris were meticulously planned, often requiring months of preparation and the assembly of large teams of guides, porters, and armed guards. One of the most famous safari enthusiasts was Frederick Selous, a British hunter, and conservationist whose exploits became legendary. Selous’ adventures inspired many, and his detailed journals and books provided a blueprint for future safari-goers. Interestingly, despite his hunting prowess, Selous was also an early advocate for conservation, recognizing the need to protect Africa’s unique wildlife.

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The Transition to Photography: A New Perspective As the 20th century progressed, the focus of safaris began to shift from hunting to photography. This change was driven by a growing awareness of the need for wildlife conservation and the realization that the thrill of the chase could be equally satisfying with a camera. Early wildlife photographers like Martin and Osa Johnson played a crucial role in this transition, capturing stunning images of African wildlife and landscapes that mesmerized audiences worldwide. The rise of photographic safaris marked a significant turning point, allowing people to experience the beauty of Africa’s wildlife without harming it. This era also saw the establishment of some of Africa’s most famous national parks and reserves, such as Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti, which became prime destinations for wildlife enthusiasts.

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Safaris Today: Luxur y, Conservation, & Cultural Exchange Modern safaris have come a long way from their rugged origins. Today, they offer a blend of adventure, luxury, & cultural immersion. High-end safari lodges & camps provide all the comforts of home, set against the backdrop of stunning African landscapes. These lodges often emphasize sustainable practices and wildlife conservation, ensuring that tourism benefits their local communities and preserves the natural environment. One unique aspect of contemporary safaris is the unique opportunity for cultural exchange. Many safari operators work closely with local tribes, such as the Maasai in Kenya and Tanzania, the Himba in Namibia, and the San in Botswana. Visitors can learn about these communities’ traditional ways of life, gaining a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultures that have coexisted with Africa’s wildlife for centuries.

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Interesting Facts: Tidbits from the World of Safari Theodore Roosevelt’s Epic Safari In 1909, former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt embarked on a year-long safari in East Africa. Accompanied by his son Kermit and a large expedition team, they collected over 11,000 animal specimens, many of which were sent to Smithsonian Institution. Hemingway’s Inspiration Ernest Hemingway’s experiences on safari inspired some of his most famous works, including “The Snows of Kilimanjaro” and “Green Hills of Africa.” His vivid descriptions brought the African wilderness to life for readers around the world. The Big Five The term “Big Five” originally referred to the five most challenging animals to hunt on foot: the lion, leopard, rhinos, elephant, and Cape buffalo. Today, the Big Five are a major attraction for wildlife photographers and safari-goers, symbolizing the diverse and majestic wildlife of Africa. Cultural Exchange Modern safaris often include visits to local communities, where travelers can learn about traditional practices and customs. For example, visitors to the Maasai Mara might spend time with Maasai warriors, learning about their rituals, dances, and ways of life. Conservation Efforts Many safari lodges and operators actively engage in conservation efforts, from anti-poaching initiatives to community education programs. These efforts are crucial in protecting Africa’s wildlife and ensuring that future generations can experience the magic of safari.

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The Ever-Evolving Safari The history of safari is a tapestry woven with threads of adventure, discovery, and conservation. From its early roots in trade and exploration to the thrilling hunts of the past and the conservation-focused expeditions of today, safari has continually evolved to meet the changing values & interests of society. As we look to the future, safaris will likely continue to adapt, offering new ways to experience & protect the incredible landscapes and wildlife of Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, the spirit of safari invites you to embark on a journey of wonder, excitement, & discovery.

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WHEN IN

AFRICA

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WHAT YOU

NEED

KNOW

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Traveling to Africa can be a life-changing adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and incredible wildlife encounters. However, to make the most of your trip and ensure a smooth & enjoyable experience, it is crucial to be well-prepared. This article will cover important things to know when traveling to Africa, from health & safety tips to cultural insights and the significance of choosing the right safari company and guides.

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Health & Safety: Preparing for Your Journey Before traveling to Africa, consult your doctor or a travel clinic about necessary vaccinations. Common vaccinations include: Yellow Fever: Required for entry into several African countries. Hepatitis A & B: Recommended for most travelers. Typhoid: Suggested for those visiting rural areas or eating outside major hotels and restaurants. Malaria Prophylaxis: Essential if you’re visiting areas where malaria is prevalent. Consult your doctor for the appropriate medication. Travel Insurance Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft. This ensures that you’re protected against unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise derail your trip.

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Safety Precautions Stay Informed Keep updated on the political and social climate of the countries you plan to visit. Websites like the U.S. Department of State or the UK Foreign Travel Advice provide valuable information on travel advisories. Local Laws & Customs Respect local laws and customs. Dress modestly, especially in conservative areas, and be aware of cultural norms. Avoid Flashy Displays To reduce the risk of theft, avoid displaying expensive jewelry, electronics, and large amounts of cash. Travel Gear Binoculars Essential for wildlife viewing on safari. Camera Capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife. Remember extra batteries and memory cards. Reusable Water Bottle Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste. Insect Repellent Protect yourself from mosquito bites, particularly in malaria-prone areas.

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Cultural Etiquette: Respect & Understanding Greetings & Communication Learn Basic Phrases Learning a few words in the local language, such as greetings and thank you, goes a long way in showing respect & building rapport. Respectful Interactions Always greet people politely and be mindful of body language. In many African cultures, handshakes are common, and using both hands or the right hand only is considered respectful. Photography Etiquette Ask for Permission Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas or traditional communities. Respect Sacred Sites Be aware of and respect the rules at sacred sites, religious ceremonies, and cultural landmarks.

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Choosing the Right Safari Company & Guides Importance of a Reputable Safari Company Choosing the right safari company is critical to ensuring a memorable and safe experience. Here’s why: Safety Reputable companies prioritize your safety, with wellmaintained vehicles, experienced guides, & strict adherence to safety protocols. Knowledgeable Guides Experienced guides enhance your safari by providing in-depth knowledge about the wildlife, ecology, and local culture. Their expertise helps you understand animal behavior, spot elusive species, and learn about the intricate web of life in the African wilderness. Conservation Efforts Ethical safari companies often contribute to conservation efforts and support local communities. By choosing such a company, you help protect wildlife and promote sustainable tourism. Customized Experience Top safari companies offer tailored experiences to match your interests, whether it’s bird watching, photography, or tracking specific animals.

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What to Look for in a Safari Guide A skilled safari guide can make all the difference in your adventure. Look for guides who: Have Extensive Experience Experienced guides possess a deep understanding of the terrain, wildlife, and best viewing spots. Are Excellent Communicators Good guides are not only knowledgeable but also skilled in communicating complex information in an engaging and understandable way. Show Respect for Wildlife Ethical guides prioritize the well-being of animals, ensuring that encounters do not disturb their natural behavior. Are Certified & Trained Look for guides with certification from reputable wildlife and safari organizations, ensuring they have undergone rigorous training and adhere to high standards.

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Sustainable Travel: Supporting Conservation & Communities Eco-Friendly Practices Choose accommodations and tour operators that practice eco-friendly principles. Look for lodges that use renewable energy, practice waste reduction, and support conservation projects. Supporting Local Communities Opt for safari companies and accommodations that employ local staff, support local businesses, and invest in community development projects. This helps ensure that tourism benefits the local economy and fosters positive relationships between tourists and residents.

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Unique Experiences: Beyond the Safari Cultural Tours Take time to truly explore the rich cultural heritage of Africa. Visit local markets, engage in traditional dance and music performances, and learn about the history and customs of the communities you visit. Adventure Activities Africa offers a plethora of adventure activities beyond safaris. Consider hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti, trekking to see gorillas in Uganda, or sandboarding in the Namib Desert. Relaxation & Wellness Many safari lodges offer wellness retreats where you can unwind with spa treatments, yoga sessions, and meditation in serene natural settings.

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Embrace the Journey... Traveling to Africa is an extraordinary experience that requires thoughtful preparation and respect for the diverse cultures and environments you will encounter. By understanding the importance of health and safety, packing appropriately, respecting cultural norms, and choosing reputable safari companies and guides, you can ensure a memorable and meaningful adventure. Embrace the journey with an open heart and mind, and you’ll discover the beauty, wonder, and spirit of Africa in ways that will stay with you forever.

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COMPREHENSIVE

CHECKLIST& PACKING LIST

AFRICAN

for an

SAFARI

Traveling to an African safari requires thorough preparation to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable experience. Here is a detailed checklist & packing list to guide you. You can download the checklist here.

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Travel Documents & Essentials

Passport: Ensure it is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates with blank pages for visas and stamps Visas: Check visa requirements for each country you will be visiting & obtain them in advance if necessary Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, trip can cellations, & personal belongings Flight Tickets & Itinerary: Printed copies and electronic versions Hotel & Safari Lodge Reservations: Confirmation details Emergency Contacts: List of important contacts, including embassy/consulate information and personal emergency contacts

Health & Safety Vaccination Records: Proof of vaccinations, especially Yellow Fever if required. Malaria Prophylaxis: Prescribed medication and instructions Prescription Medications: Sufficient supply for the duration of your trip, with copies of prescriptions First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, anti-diarrheal & pain meds, antihistamines, and any personal medical needs Insect Repellent: DEET-based repellent for mosquito protection. Sunscreen: High SPF, broad-spectrum Hand Sanitizer & Disinfectant Wipes: For hygiene on the go Travel Health Guide: Information on local health facilities and emergency procedures Clothing & Footwear Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Neutral colors like khaki, beige, and olive to blend into the environment. Long-Sleeved Shirts & Pants: For sun protection and to deter insects Warm Layers: Fleece or jacket for early mornings and evenings Rain Jacket: Lightweight and packable for unexpected showers Comfortable Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes and comfortable sandals for around the lodge Hat: Wide-brimmed for sun protection Sunglasses: UV-protective lenses Swimwear: For pools at lodges or beach days Buff or Scarf: For dust protection during game drives Underwear & Socks: Quick-dry and moisture-wicking materials are ideal

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Buff or Scarf: For dust protection during game drives Underwear & Socks: Quick-dry and moisture-wicking materials are ideal Safari Gear Binoculars: Essential for wildlife viewing Camera & Accessories: DSLR or mirrorless camera, lenses, extra batteries, memory cards, and a cleaning kit Smartphone & Charger: For photos, navigation, and communication Portable Power Bank: To keep devices charged during long days in the field Flashlight or Headlamp: Useful for nighttime around the camp Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste Daypack: Small backpack for daily essentials during game drives Dry Bags: To protect electronics & important documents from water & dust Notebook & Pen: For jotting down observations and experiences Personal Care & Toiletries Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant, & razor Moisturizer: For dry conditions Lip Balm: With SPF protection Travel Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying Feminine Hygiene Products: Sufficient supply for the trip Laundry Detergent: Travel-sized for hand-washing clothes Documents & Money Copies of Important Documents: Passport, visas, travel insurance, & itinerary stored separately from the originals Cash: In local currency and small denominations for tips & small purchases Credit & Debit Cards: Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid issues Money Belt or Hidden Pouch: For secure storage of valuables Miscellaneous Items Guidebooks & Maps: Information on local attractions, wildlife, & culture Books or E-Reader: For leisure reading Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit for long drives and excursions Ziplock Bags: For storing snacks, wet clothes, or organizing small items Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife: Useful for various small tasks Travel Pillow & Blanket: For comfort during long flights or drives

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Tech & Gadgets Universal Adapter: For charging electronics in different countries Laptop or Tablet: For staying connected or journaling your experience Noise-Canceling Headphones: For flights and noisy environments GPS Device or Offline Maps: Useful for navigation in remote areas Special Items Gifts for Locals: Small, thoughtful gifts for guides or local communities, such as school supplies, clothing, or toys for children Field Guide Books: On African wildlife, birds, & plants to enhance your safari experience Travel Games or Cards: For entertainment during downtime Additional Tips for a Successful Safari Pack Light: There are weight limits for luggage due to small aircraft restrictions. Use soft-sided duffel bags for easier packing. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially in hot climates. Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals, follow your guide’s instructions, and never attempt to feed or approach wildlife. Be Flexible: Safari schedules can change due to weather, animal movements, and other factors. Embrace the unexpected and enjoy the adventure By following this comprehensive checklist and packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable African safari experience. Have fun & enjoy every moment!

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PLAYLIST

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OUR SPONSOR

on &

Exclusive Discounts

Luxury Lodging Personalized Safari Packages

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TAASA A

T RU LY

U N I QU E S A FA R I

E X P E R I E N C E

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Luxury. Safari. Magical. TAASA Lodge is all three. There is truly no comparison to waking up in comfort right in the middle of nature. I have no words. Magic is the only word that comes close to describing the experience of staying at TAASA. From the minute you arrive, the TAASA family is there to greet you and welcome you into their community. TAASA is not just a lodge, it is also a vibrant community where everyone works together to make the guest experience one that you will surely remember. Each and every detail is thought out, from the well-decorated and welcoming common areas, the dining experience, fully equiped luxury tents, the early morning coffee & cookie delivery to the room, to placing water heating pads in your bed when they get the room ready for you at night. Each day you get to bask in nature. Between TAASA’s knowledgeable staff, spotters and the unique ability to go off-roading (something you cannot do in national parks), you truly get to experience Serengeti the absolute best way possible. It simply feels like you are home. Feels like you’re amongst friends. Feels like you have been there before. And it is felt in their genuine smiles that they are there to make sure you have the time of your life...

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TAASA Lodge is uniquely situated between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and Serengeti National Park, providing unobstructed views of the African savannah’s untamed beauty. Although the lodge is located in the bush, every aspect of it is thoughtfully designed to prioritize an intimate & private experience that brings you closer to the wildlife while enjoying the comfort of many luxurious accommodations. In addition to the game drives, the dining area, the outdoor firepit (AKA The African TV!), and the amazing infinity pool, there are surprises planned by the TAASA team for you to meet the other amazing guests. We made a few friends during our time there and it made the experience that much more memorable. You also get to go on a walking tour where you get to see some wildlife and learn so much about the plants in the surrounding areas and how the locals use them for natural remedies, food, toothpaste, etc. These pictures are a glimpse into this magical oasis. However, pictures really do not do this place justice. I hope you get to experience it for yourself. It is simply life-changing.

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The Main Building: Restaurant & Bar

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Your Luxury TAASA Tent

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View of Serengeti from Your Tent & Main Area

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Let me tell you a little about my favorite thing about TAASA Lodge and why we keep going back to this amazing place! The gift shop was started with the intention of giving back to the local community, especially the local Maasais. Over the years, not only their commitment to do so has not faded away or gone off track, it has grown stronger. They now proudly support more people and communities. At the moment, ALL of the products sold at this shop come from the following 2 sources: Widowed Maasai women in the nearby village. They’re carefully hand selected by TAASA management & are provided with a list of goods that are proven to sell really well at the shop, so their efforts are fruitful and so is consistent income. Maasai women often do not get remarried once widowed and are left with raising the kids and caring for themselves. This initiative by TAASA Lodge is merely focused on creating a source of income and support for these women. SANAA, in Arusha, is a wonderful project that highlights and supports marginalized artists who make amazing products. In their workshop, disabled artists create unique products, mainly from recycled waste. Proceeds from all sales are used for the several charitable projects which Sanaa supports. Their artists are proud to be the breadwinners for their families and in turn they generate funds to support other people in need! 100% of the proceeds from TAASA’s gift shop is given back to the Maasai women & SANAA. Their products are beautiful and high quality. It simply cannot get better than buying amazing local handcrafted art & souvenirs and being a part of helping the local community and artists.

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The highlight of the trip for us was the amazing game drives, in early morning and at night, when you get to see the incredible Tanzanian wildlife and learn so much from your very knowledgeable guides. These amazing game drives are already included as part of your stay at TAASA along with the amazing culinary experience and drinks they have to offer. One of our favorite experiences was the drive to Mara River and witnessing the Wildebeests crossing the river, an experience that required a lot of patience waiting for the herd to decide to cross. At times, people do not get to even see it as the herd tends to be very indecisive. We got so lucky and got to see it 3 times in one day!!! Many of the images included in this editorial are from our time at TAASA.

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Exciting Morning & Evening Game Drives with Some of The Most Experienced & Knowledegable Guides

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Surprise Bush Breakfast Post Morning Game Drive

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Truly The Kindest & Most Attentive Staff We’ve Ever Encountered

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High-Kitchen Food & Desserts at The Lodge

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At TAASA you also get a chance to experience an evening in the life of local Maasai people in a nearby village, learn about their life, watch them sing and dance. You can purchase very unique handmade Maasai jewelry and art pieces for yourself or as souvenirs for family and friends.

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A Fireside Evening with Friends & Maasai Warriors

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And Delicious, Authentic Tanzanian Food

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Unforgettable Night Game Drives

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And The Best Stargazing Adventure Ever... Seeing The Milky Way with Your Naked Eyes is Truly A Remarkable Experience

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AFRICAN WILDLIFE

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Africa’s wildlife is one of the most diverse and spectacular on the planet. From the iconic Big Five to an array of birds, insects, and reptiles, the continent’s fauna plays a crucial role in its ecosystems. Predators regulate prey populations, preventing overgrazing and promoting healthy vegetation growth. Herbivores, in turn, shape the landscape through their grazing habits, supporting a diverse array of plant species. Scavengers clean up carcasses, reducing the spread of disease, while insects & birds play crucial roles in pollination and seed dispersal. One of the best ways to learn about Africa’s wildlife is through safari experience, as they offer a front-row seat to the wonders of wildlife, providing unforgettable experiences that foster a deep appreciation for nature. Additionally, tourism revenue from safaris is crucial for funding conservation projects and protected areas. Entrance fees, permits, and eco-friendly accommodations support anti-poaching initiatives, habitat restoration, and community conservation programs. Safaris also promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities by creating jobs and supporting businesses. We have been so incredibly fortunate to experience a few unforgettable safari experiences over the past few years. Each journey has been a profound adventure, deepening our appreciation for Africa’s unparalleled wildlife and the vital role of conservation. We hope to share this knowledge and, more importantly, motivate you to embark on this once-in-alifetime journey yourself.

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BIG 5 THE

Let’s start our journey by learning more about the most sought animals by safari enthusiasts, known as the African Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos. The term “Big Five” was originally coined by big-game hunters and refers to the five most difficult & dangerous animals to hunt in Africa on foot. They are emblematic of the African continent and its rich biodiversity and have been featured prominently in African folklore, art, and literature for centuries, symbolizing power,majesty, and the untamed wilderness. The Big Five are also deeply woven into the cultural fabric of many African societies, where they are revered and respected. They feature in many traditional ceremonies, storytelling, & rituals, representing a deep connection to the natural world and ancestral heritage.

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LIONS

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Lionesses lack manes, which makes them appear smaller and more streamlined compared to males. This physical build is advantageous for hunting as they are the primary hunters in the pride. Adult female lions typically weigh between 265-395 lbs (120-180 kg). Including the tail, female lions can reach a total length of about 8-9 ft (2.4-2.7 m) and stand about 3.6 ft (1.1 m) tall at the shoulder.

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Male lions are characterized by their impressive manes, which can vary in color and size. The mane makes them look larger and serves to protect their necks during fights with other males. Adult males typically weigh between 330550 lbs (150-250 kg). They can reach a total length of about 9-10 feet (2.7-3 m), including the tail and at the shoulder, stand about 4 ft (1.2 m) tall.

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Lions live in social groups known as prides, which is a unique characteristic among big cats. Prides can range from as few as 3 lions to as many as 30 members, but typicalyl consists of around 15 lions. A pride typically has 1-4 adult males, who are often brothers or close relatives. These males are responsible for protecting the pride and its territory. The core of the pride is made up of related females who are sisters, mothers, daughters, and cousins. These females usually stay with the pride for life. The pride also includes cubs and sub-adults (juvenile lions) who are the offspring of the females. There is a clear hierarchy within the pride. Dominant males are at the top, followed by the females and cubs. Among the females, there is often a pecking order based on age and strength.

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Living in a pride offers protection for the cubs & individual lions from other predators and rival lions. Also, communal care for the young (sharing responsibilities & even allowing cubs to nurse from any female in the pride) ensures a higher chance of survival for the cubs, even if one mother is absent or killed.

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Additionally, living in a pride allows lions to group hunt and take down larger prey and increases the overall hunting success rate, which is crucial to the survival of all the members of the pride and the strength needed to remain the apex predator they are.

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Lion cubs are born with a spotted coat. These spots serve several important functions that aid in their survival during the early stages of their life. The spotted pattern helps lion cubs blend into their surroundings, which is crucial for avoiding detection by predators such as hyenas, leopards, and other lions, providing them with an extra layer of protection during their most vulnerable stages. The spots can also help mother lions and pride members identify and keep track of the cubs, especially in dense vegetation or during periods of rest and play. As cubs grow, the spots gradually fade & eventually disappear. This transformation typically occurs around 3 to 6 months of age, coinciding with the cubs becoming more mobile and starting to learn hunting skills. By the time they are around a year old, most lions have lost their spots and developed the tawny coat typical of adult lions. This change reflects their transition from the vulnerable cub stage to sub-adults and more independent juveniles.

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Lions have impressive eyesight, which is essential for their survival as apex predators. They’ve adapted to be highly effective nocturnal hunters. Their eyes contain a high proportion of rod cells, which are specialized for low-light vision. This allows them to see well in the dark, giving them an advantage during nighttime hunts. Lions have binocular vision, meaning their eyes are positioned in the front of their face, providing them with depth perception and allowing them to accurately judge distances when stalking prey. Binocular vision enhances their hunting efficiency, especially when ambushing prey. Like many predators, lions are highly attuned to movement. Their eyesight is particularly sensitive to detecting motion, making it easier for them to spot potential prey or threats even from a distance.

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Female lions, or lionesses, are primarily responsible for hunting in a lion pride. Their smaller size and greater agility compared to males make them more effective hunters. Their powerful muscles, sharp claws, and strong jaws help to catch and kill the prey. They often hunt in groups, using teamwork and strategic coordination to take down prey. This cooperative behavior increases their hunting success rate, especially when targeting large prey. Lionesses use stealth to get as close as possible to their prey before launching an ambush. They often hunt during dawn or dusk to take advantage of low light conditions, using their amazing eyesight in the dark. While male lions do not typically participate in hunting, they play a crucial role in protecting the pride & its territory. They will, however, often eat first when a kill is made, dominating the feeding order using their strength.

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The mane of a male lion is one of its most distinctive and striking features. It serves several important functions and has significant implications for a lion’s life and social interactions. A full, dark mane is often a sign of good health and high testosterone levels. It signals to other lions that the male is strong and fit, indicates genetic fitness and the ability to provide protection, which means higher attractiveness to females. The mane also acts as a visual cue of dominance and can help maintain the lion’s position within the pride or deter outside males from attempting to take over. During battles for territory or dominance within the pride, the mane cushions blows and shields the neck and head from bites and scratches, reducing the risk of serious injury. The color & fullness of a mane can indicate the age of a lion. Young males usually have much lighter, shorter manes, while older males have darker, fuller manes. This helps other lions assess the age and experience of a male at a glance.

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Lions are often perceived as lazy due to their extensive periods of rest & inactivity. However, this behavior is a crucial adaptation that helps them survive in their natural habitat. Hunting large prey requires a significant amount of energy, and hunts are often unsuccessful. By resting and conserving energy, lions can be more effective during these intense bursts of activity. By resting in the shade and being inactive during the hottest parts of the day, lions can regulate their body temperature and avoid overheating. They are primarily active during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and late afternoon. Also, Lions’ feeding habits are mainly characterized by periods of feasting followed by long intervals without food. Resting helps them survive during these periods of scarcity. Last but not least, after consuming a large meal, lions need to rest to digest their food properly. Digesting a large quantity of meat can be energy-intensive.

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Before mating, lions engage in courtship behavior, which includes rubbing heads, nuzzling, and licking each other. These actions help establish a bond between the pair. Unlike many other animals, lion courtships can be relatively short. Once a female is in estrus (heat), the male quickly identifies her reproductive status and mating begins almost immediately. When a lioness is in estrus, she and the male will mate frequently, approximately every 20-30 minutes, over several days. This can result in up to 50 matings per day. Each mating session is brief, usually lasting less than a minute. However, the frequency and repeated nature of mating increase the chances of successful fertilization. After mating, lions often rest and groom each other. This postmating bonding is crucial for maintaining social harmony within the pride. During this time, the male lion will closely guard the lioness to prevent other males from mating with her. However, it is not uncommon for a lioness to mate with a few different males in the coalition. This behavior can reduce the likelihood of infanticide, as the males are less certain of paternity and thus less likely to kill the cubs.

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The ability to detect when a female is ovulating is crucial for reproductive success. By mating at the optimal time, the chances of conception are maximized. For male lions, successfully mating with females in estrus ensures the continuation of their genetic line. This is particularly important in the competitive social structure of lion prides. In addition to behavioral (such as restlessness, rubbing against objects, and rolling on the ground) and visual cues (lifting their tail or crouching) displayed by the lionesses, male lions engage in a fascinating ritual called the Flehmen Response to detect when a female lion is ovulating. They curl back their lips & inhale deeply. This action directs scents to the Jacobson’s organ in the roof of their mouth, which is highly sensitive to pheromones. This helps males detect the presence of estrus pheromones and assess the female’s reproductive state.

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Lions in the wild typically live for about 10 to 14 years. However, many lions do not reach this age due to various challenges such as injuries, disease, starvation, and conflicts with other lions or humans. Male lions usually have a shorter lifespan in the wild, often around 8 to 12 years. Their shorter lifespan is mainly due to the intense competition for dominance and territory. The constant pressure to defend their pride can lead to injuries and stress. Female lions tend to live longer than males, often reaching 12 to 14 years. They are less likely to engage in the violent territorial disputes that males face, and they benefit from the protection provided by the pride. Lions in captivity can live significantly longer due to the absence of predators, consistent food supply, veterinary care, and controlled environments. Captive lions often live for 15 to 20 years.

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LEOPARDS

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Leopards are fascinating and highly adaptable big cats. They’re found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, mountains, grasslands, and savannas. They inhabit parts of Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and even the Russian Far East. They can live close to human settlements and are known to prey on livestock and pets, making them both opportunistic & resilient. Leopards are solitary animals, with each individual having its own territory. They mark their territory with scent markings and scratches on trees to communicate with other leopards. The spots on a

leopard’s coat are called rosettes, which are rose-like patterns with no central spot, distinguishing them from the spots of other big cats like jaguars. Each leopard’s rosette pattern is unique, much like human fingerprints.

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Leopards are known for their versatility in hunting techniques. They may ambush prey from a tree, stalk it through the underbrush, or even chase it down over short distances. Leopards are primarily nocturnal and do most of their hunting at night. Their keen night vision and stealth make them highly effective predators under the cover of darkness. They are incredibly stealthy and use their camouflage to approach prey closely without being detected. They often rely on surprise and short bursts of speed to catch their prey. Leopards can run at speeds of up to 36 miles per hour (58 kilometers per hour) for short distances. They are also capable of making powerful leaps, both vertically and horizontally.

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Leopards are excellent climbers and often take their prey up into trees to avoid scavengers such as hyenas, lions, and even vultures. They use their strong, retractable claws to climb and can carry prey heavier than themselves up into the branches. Amazingly, they have the ability to carry a kill three times their weight up the tree, which makes them one of the strongest cats, pund for pound. By storing their kill in a tree, leopards return to feed on it over several days without worrying about it being scavenged or spoiled as quickly as it would on the ground. Elevated positions slow down the process of decay due to better air circulation and reduced contact with ground bacteria and insects. It also allows leopards to minimize energy expenditure on defending their food from scavengers, reducing the need for constant confrontations and vigilance.

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Like other big cats such as lions, tigers, and cheetahs, leopards possess large canines and carnassial teeth (the largest cheek teeth located towards the back of the mouth, which are blade-like and adapted for shearing) designed for a carnivorous diet. Leopards canine teeth that can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length. These teeth are conical and slightly curved. The canines are used for gripping and puncturing the skin of their prey. They are essential for delivering a killing bite, aimed at the throat to suffocate or the nape of the neck to sever the spinal cord. Leopards have strong jaw muscles that provide the necessary force to crush bones and hold onto struggling prey. Their bite force is very impressive (estimated at about 300 to 500 pounds per square inch (psi), which puts them in the same range as other big cats like jaguars and slightly below that of lions & tigers), allowing them to pierce through thick hides and bones.

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In the wild, leopards generally live between 10 to 15 years. However, many leopards do not reach this age due to predation, territorial conflicts, injuries, and disease. Females typically live slightly longer than males, often reaching the upper and of the lifespan range. Leopards in captivity live longer than their wild counterparts. They can live up to 20 years or more in well-managed captive environments where they can receive proper care, nutrition, and veterinary attention. Illegal poaching & trade, , expansion of human settlements, deforestation, fragmentation of habitats and climate change continue to negatively impact leopards lifespan in the wild. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies leopards as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

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BLACK

RHINOS

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Black rhinos have two horns on their snouts. The front horn is larger and can grow up to 50 in (127 cm) long, while the smaller rear horn typically measures about 20 in (51 cm). The horns are made of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and nails. They have a pointed, prehensile upper lip that they use to grasp leaves & twigs, making them well-adapted to browsing for food in bushes and trees (unlike their relative, the white rhino, which are grazers and have a square lip). Black rhinos have thick, tough skin that provides some protection against predators and thorny vegetation. Black rhinos are known for their relatively aggressive and unpredictable behavior. They charge at perceived threats, and despite their size, they can run at speeds of up to 34 miles per hour (55 km/hr).

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Black rhinos are generally solitary, except for females with calves or during mating. The gestation period for black rhinos is approximately 15 to 16 months. Females give birth to a single calf, which stays with its mother for up to three years. This slow reproductive rate makes their population recovery slow and challenging.

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While black rhinos can survive in arid environments, they need regular access to water and are often found near water sources. They frequently wallow in mud to cool off, protect their skin from the sun, and deter parasites.

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Black rhinos are classified as critically endangered by the IUCN due to poaching and habitat loss. Their population saw a dramatic decline from around 70,000 in the 1960s to about 2,410 in the mid1990s. Luckily, conservation efforts have helped increase their numbers to around 5,500 individuals today. One of the conservation success stories is Momma Serengeti (as seen in the right picture). She along with another female rhino and one male were the 3 rhinos left in Maru, Tanzania, in early 1990’s. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the local rangers and initiatives supported by animal enthusiasts and tourists, there are 43+ rhinos living in Maru today (14 of them, 7 males and 7 females, from Momma Serengeti & she was pregnant again when we visited).

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Black Rhinos typically live between 35 to 40 years in the wild (White Rhinos generally live around 40 to 50 years). They can live slightly longer in captivity, often reaching up to 45 years due to the absence of threats like poaching & predation, & the provision of regular veterinary care and a steady food supply. The most significant threat to rhinos, especially black rhinos, is poaching for their horns. However, Encroachment by human activities such as agriculture, urban development, and deforestation reduces the habitat available for rhinos, impacting their ability to find food and reproduce. While the faith of White Rhinos hangs in the balance, Establishing and maintaining national parks and wildlife reserves, implementing strict anti-poaching measures, and captive breeding programs have significantly helped with increasing the number of Black Rhinos over the last 3 decades.

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AFRICAN

ELEPHANTS

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The African elephant is the largest land animal. Adult male can weigh up to 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) and stand up to 10 to 13 ft (3 to 4 m) tall at the shoulder. Females are generally smaller, weighing between 4,000 and 7,700 lbs (1,814 to 3,492 kg) and standing 8 to 9 feet (2.5 to 3 m) tall. From trunk to tail, African elephants can measure up to 24 ft (7.3 m) in length. The trunk alone can be about 6 to 7 ft (1.8 to 2.1 m) long. Their large, fan-shaped ears can reach up to 5 feet (1.5 m) across. They have large feet to support their immense weight. The circumference of an elephant’s front foot can be about 4.5 ft (1.4 m). African elephants have the largest brains of any land animal, weighing about 1012 lbs (4.5-5.5 kg). Their large brains contribute to their high intelligence, amazing memory and complex social behaviors. Thanks to their remarkable long-term memory allows them to remember locations, individuals, and events for many years. This is vital for navigating their large home ranges & remembering the locations of water sources, food, & safe paths.

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Both male & female African elephants have tusks, which are elongated incisor teeth. Male tusks are generally larger and thicker. Their tusks can grow up to 10 ft (3 m) long and weigh over 200 lbs (90 kg). Tusks are primarily composed of dentine, a dense, bone-like material, and are covered in a hard enamel. This dense, hard ivory is highly valued and has been used historically for carving and making various items. Tusks grow throughout an elephant’s life at a rate of about 7 in (17 cm) per year. This continuous growth can result in tusks that are several feet long in older elephants. Elephants use their tusks for a variety of purposes, including digging for water, salt, and roots, stripping bark from trees, moving objects, and clearing pathways.Tusks also serve as formidable weapons for defense against predators and during fights with other elephants, particularly in male-to-male competition for mates.

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African elephant herds are led by the oldest and most experienced female, known as the matriarch. She makes decisions about where to move and find food and water. The matriarch’s knowledge is crucial for the survival of the herd, especially during droughts & other challenging conditions. Herds are composed of related females and their offspring. Adult males (bulls) leave the herd when they reach adolescence to avoid inbreeding and often live solitary lives or form bachelor groups of a few male elephants. The size of an elephant herd can vary from a few individuals to over 100 elephants, depending on the availability of resources and the season. Large herds split into smaller sub-groups led by different females, usually daughters or sisters of the matriarch, & reunite during certain times of the year. Elephants learn important survival skills from older herd members, including how to find water, navigate terrain, and identify safe food sources.

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The matriarch is the oldest and most experienced female in the herd in charge of leading the group and making crucial decisions regarding movement, feeding, and protection. Her experience and knowledge, particularly about water sources and safe migration routes, are vital for the herd’s survival. While the matriarch has the final say, the decision-making in the herd often involves input from other adult females. They use body language and vocalizations to communicate and reach consensus. While the matriarch has the final say, decision-making in the herd often involves input from other adult females. They use vocalizations & body language to communicate and reach consensus. Matriarchs can live up to 60-70 years, providing stability and continuity to the herd. Their longevity allows them to accumulate and pass on their extensive knowledge.

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vocalizati

ions and

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Young males leave their maternal herds when they reach adolescence, around 1215 years old. Adult bulls live solitary lives, unless they become a part of temporary bachelor groups with other males. They travel long distances to find receptive females and associate with female herds during the mating season. During musth (periodic condition in male elephants characterized by a significant increase in testosterone levels, making them more aggressive & sexually active), bulls become more dominant and challenge other males for mating rights by engaging in physical contests that involve pushing, tusking, and displaying strength. However, Female elephants are to choose the strongest and most dominant males as mates, ensuring the best genes for their offspring. Male elephants establish a dominance hierarchy based on size, strength, & age. Dominant bulls have better access to females in heat.

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Elephant pregnancies last about 22 months, the longest of any land animal. Calves weigh around 220-250 lbs (100113 kg) at birth & stand about 3 ft (1 m) tall. The bond between a calf and its mother is incredibly strong and she is fiercely protective and attentive to her calf ’s needs. Calves grow quickly, gaining around 2-3 lbs (1-1.5 kg) per day during their first year. By age two, calves are more independent but still rely on their mothers and the herd for protection & learning. The matriarch plays a key role in guiding & teaching calves about migratory routes, water sources, & social behaviors. Other females in the herd, known as allomothers, help take care of the calves. This cooperative care system provides additional protection and socialization for the young elephants. Calves benefit from the attention and care of multiple adults, learning important survival skills from various herd members.

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The skin of African elephants can be up to 1 in (2.5 cm) thick in some areas, providing protection against thorns, bites, & harsh environmental conditions. The skin is packed with nerve endings, making it highly sensitive to touch, pressure, and temperature changes. This sensitivity helps elephants detect insects, small objects, and changes in their environment. The skin is naturally wrinkled and folded, which helps increase the surface area for better cooling through evaporative heat loss. Wrinkles and folds also help retain moisture and mud, providing a cooling effect & protection against the sun and parasites. Elephant skin has remarkable self-healing properties. Small cuts and abrasions can heal quickly, thanks to the skin’s regenerative capabilities.

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Elephant trunks are incredibly versatile and complex appendages, essential for their daily lives and survival. The trunk is made up of about 40,000 muscles, compared to the roughly 600 muscles in the human body. These muscles provide exceptional strength and dexterity.It is a fusion of the upper lip and nose and does not contain any bones, allowing for flexible and precise movements. Elephants use their trunks for a wide variety of tasks, including breathing, smelling, touching, grasping, & producing sounds (trumpeting used for communication, signaling excitement, or warning.). The trunk can perform delicate tasks such as picking up a single blade of grass or a peanut, as well as powerful tasks like uprooting trees. The trunk has an incredibly sensitive sense of smell, which is up to four times better than a bloodhound’s. Elephants can detect water sources from several miles away. Young elephants are born with little control over their trunks. It takes months of practice before they can use their trunks to explore their environment, play with objects, and learn from older elephants.

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African elephants typically live between 60 to 70 years in the wild, although some individuals can live longer under optimal conditions. In zoos and wildlife sanctuaries, elephants can live similarly long lives, sometimes exceeding their wild counterparts due to the absence of predators and the provision of medical care. Calves are vulnerable to some predators such as lions, hyenas, & crocodiles. However, adult elephants have few natural predators due to their size and strength. Diseases and parasitic infections can affect elephants, but healthy herds and good environmental conditions can mitigate these risks. Poaching for their ivory tusks continues to be the most significant threat to these gentle giants.

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BUFFALOS

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There are several subspecies of African buffalo, with the Cape buffalo being the largest and most well-known. Other subspecies include the West African savanna buffalo, the forest buffalo, and Central African savanna buffalo. Adult Cape buffalo can weigh between 1,100 and 2,200 lbs (500 to 1,000 kg) and stand about 4 to 5.5 ft (1.2 to 1.7 m) tall at the shoulder. Known for their incredible strength, buffalo are capable of fending off predators & can be quite aggressive when threatened. In Africa, Buffalo are responsible for killing more hunters than all the other predators combined. They form strong social bonds within their herds. They are known to show loyalty to one another, and wounded or sick individuals are often supported and protected by the rest of the herd.

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African buffalo are grazers that feed primarily on grasses. They have a broad diet and can also consume leaves, shrubs, and herbs when grasses are not available. They need to drink water regularly & are often found near water sources. They drink water once a day and are known to travel long distances to find it during the dry season. Buffalo play a vital role in their ecosystems by grazing on grasses, which helps maintain the balance between different plant species and promotes biodiversity. As they graze and move through their habitat, buffalo help in seed dispersal, contributing to the health and regeneration of vegetation. African buffalo live in large herds that can consist of hundreds of individuals. These herds are typically composed of females, their offspring, and a few dominant males. Younger and older males often form smaller bachelor groups, especially during the dry season when resources are scarce.

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Both male and female African buffalo have horns. In males (on the right), the horns are fused at the base to form a continuous bone shield called a “boss,” which covers the top of their head. The horns curve outward and then upward, creating a shape that is not only striking but also functional for defense and combat.

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Buffalo horns grow throughout the animal’s life. The base of the horn is continuously thickening, & the tips gradually lengthen and curve as the buffalo ages. The horns of male buffalo are generally larger & thicker than those of females and can reach up to 40 in (~1 m) in length.

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Breeding can occur year-round, but there is often a peak during the rainy season when resources are abundant. The gestation period for buffalo is about 11 months. Females give birth to a single calf that is relatively precocial, meaning they are born in an advanced state of development. Calves can stand & follow their mother within a few hours of birth. Mother buffalo are highly protective of their calves. They keep them close and within the herd for protection against predators. The herd forms a protective circle around the young when they’re threatened. Calves nurse for about 6-9 months but start grazing on grass within a few weeks. Females generally remain with their natal herd, contributing to its social structure and stability. Males leave the herd around the age of 2-4 years to join their bachelor groups.

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In the wild, African buffalos have an average life expectancy of around 15 to 25 years. However, they can live longer in captivity, with some individuals reaching 30 years or more. Calves & older individuals are particularly vulnerable to predation, especially by lions and hyenas. Predation can significantly reduce the average lifespan of buffalo in the wild. disease and parasites, droughts and habitat loss, and human activities such as hunting, habitat destruction, and human-wildlife conflict are other factors contributing to lower life expectancy of the African buffalos.

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HIPPOS

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African hippos (Hippopotamuses) are unique & fascinating animals known for their massive size, semi-aquatic lifestyle, and sometimes unpredictable behavior. They are the third-largest land mammals, after elephants and white rhinos. Adult males can weigh between 3,300-7,100 lbs (1,500-3,200 kg), while females are slightly smaller. Hippos are herbivores and mainly feed on grasses. Despite their large size, they have simple stomachs and digest their food through fermentation, similar to ruminant animals like cows. They usually graze at night, venturing onto land to feed on grasses along the riverbanks and in floodplains.

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Hippos spend much of their time in water to keep cool & prevent sunburn. They’re well-adapted to an aquatic lifestyle, with eyes, ears, & nostrils located on the tops of their heads to allow them to see, hear, and breathe while mostly submerged and protected against landbased predators such as lions (giving them their nickname: “river horses”). Hippos do not have sweat glands, so they rely on water to keep cool. They can spend hours submerged to avoid overheating, especially during the hot daytime hours. Water bodies serve as gathering places for hippos, allowing them to interact socially, establish territories, and form groups, which is important for their social behavior and hierarchy. Hippos mate and give birth in the water. The buoyancy of the water helps support the female during mating and birth, and provides a safer environment for newborn calves.

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Despite a lumbering appearance, African hippos are known for their unpredictable behavior and can be quite agile & surprisingly fast, especially in water. Hippos are territorial animals, and they can become aggressive if they feel their territory is being invaded. They may vocalize loudly, bare their teeth, and charge to defend their space. Males (bulls) are particularly temperamental during mating season and may charge at boats or even people without warning. Female hippos (cows) are fiercely protective of their calves and can display aggressive behavior if they perceive a threat, even from other hippos. They have incredibly powerful jaws and a formidable bite force. Their bite force is estimated to be around 1,800 pounds per square inch (psi), which is among the strongest in the animal kingdom. This allows them to easily crush vegetation and defend themselves against predators or rivals.

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The gestation period for a hippo is about 8 months. They usually give birth in the water or very close to it. This provides a safe environment for the newborn calf, protecting it from predators and ensuring it can quickly adapt to an aquatic life. A hippo calf weighs between 55 to 120 lbs (25 to 55 kg) at birth. Despite their size, they are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath underwater for up to 40 seconds. The calves are unique in that they can nurse underwater. They have special adaptations that allow them to suckle while submerged, closing their ears & nostrils to prevent water from entering. Hippo calves grow rapidly, gaining about 5 lbs (2.3 kg) per day during the first few months of life. They start nibbling on grass within a few weeks but continue to nurse for up to 8 months.

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In the wild, hippos typically live around 40 to 50 years. In captivity, where they’re protected from predators and provided with consistent care and nutrition, hippos can live longer. They often reach 50 years or more, with some individuals living into their 60s. The oldest recorded hippo in captivity lived to be 65 years old. The primary factors affecting a hippo’s lifespan include health, diet, and environmental conditions. In the wild, they face threats from habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching, which can impact their lifespan.

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GIRAFFES

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Giraffes are the tallest land animals, with males standing up to 18 ft (5.5 m) tall and females up to 14 ft (4.3 m). Their long necks make up nearly half of their height. Despite their long necks, which can be up to 6 ft (1.8 m) long, giraffes have the same number of neck vertebrae (seven) as most other mammals, including humans. Each vertebra can be over 10 in (25 cm) long compared to a human’s vertebra measuring at 0.4 to 0.8 in (1 to 2 cm). Giraffes have incredibly long legs (with their front legs slightly longer than their back legs) and large hooves 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter. The hooves provide stability & support their massive bodies. A giraffe’s heart weighs about 25 pounds (11 kg) and is specially adapted to generate powerful blood pressure to pump blood up their long necks to the brain.

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Giraffes tongues are about 18-20 in (45-50 cm) long and are prehensile, meaning they can grasp & manipulate objects. This helps giraffes strip leaves from branches and navigate around thorns, especially from acacia trees, which are a staple of their diet. The tongue is also dark purple, which helps protect it from sunburn as they feed.

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Giraffes have two skin-covered bony protrusions on their heads called ossicones. Both males and females have them, but they are usually larger in males and used in combat during fights for dominance and mating rights. They differ from horns & antlers because they are formed from ossified (hardened) cartilage and are covered with skin and fur.

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Giraffes have large, expressive eyes that provide excellent vision. Their eyes are positioned on the sides of their heads, providing a wide field of view. This wide-angle vision allows giraffes to see in almost all directions without moving their heads, giving them an advantage in spotting potential threats. They are believed to have good color vision, which helps them distinguish between different types of vegetation and detect subtle changes in their environment.Like many animals, giraffes have a nictitating membrane (that closes and opens very quickly), or third eyelid, which helps keep their eyes moist and clean. This translucent membrane moves across the eye, horizontally. Giraffes have long, thick eyelashes that protect their eyes from dust and debris and help with keeping insects away from their eyes.

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The pattern of spots on a giraffe’s coat is unique to each individual, much like human fingerprints, which helps researchers identify and study individual giraffes in the wild. The size, shape, and arrangement of the spots can vary among different giraffe species and subspecies. For example, Masai giraffes have irregular star-shaped spots, while Reticulated giraffes have a more defined network of polygonal spots. The spots help with camouflage as the irregular shapes and shading mimic the dappled light and shadows of their savanna and woodland habitats. The spots also play a role in thermoregulation by allowing heat to dissipate. Beneath each spot, there is a complex system of blood vessels that help release body heat, keeping the giraffe cool in hot climates.

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Giraffes typically live in loose, open social groups called “towers”. These groups can vary in size and composition, often including both males and females of various ages. Their social structure is often described as a fission-fusion system. This means that the size and composition of their groups change frequently as individuals join or leave. This flexibility allows giraffes to adapt to the availability of resources and social opportunities. Female giraffes often form stronger social bonds than males. They tend to stay in the same area where they were born and form groups with other females and their offspring. These groups provide safety and social learning opportunities for the calves. Adult males are generally more solitary than females, although they may form temporary bachelor groups. Males often roam over larger areas in search of mating opportunities.

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Giraffe necking battles are fascinating and unique behaviors observed among male giraffes used to establish dominance & social hierarchy among males. The winner of these battles gains higher social status and better access to mating opportunities. There are two types of necking battles. Low-intensity necking involves gentle rubbing and pressing of necks and heads. This type of necking is more of a ritualistic behavior and rarely results in injury. However, in high-intensity necking, males stand side by side and swing their necks in wide arcs, using their heads like hammers to deliver powerful blows to their opponent’s neck, chest, or legs. This can result in significant injury and even knock the opponent off balance and in some cases can be fatal. Interestingly, after the battle, the opponents appear to show mutual respect and may even engage in friendly interactions.

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Giraffes do not have a specific mating season and can breed year-round. However there might be peaks in mating activity during certain times of the year, often influenced by environmental factors like food availability. The gestation period for giraffes is about 15 months. This long gestation period allows the calf to develop fully before birth, which is crucial for survival in the wild. Female giraffes give birth standing up. The calf falls about 5-6 ft (1.5-1.8 m) to the ground, which helps stimulate its breathing. The newborn calf can weigh between 100-150 lbs (45-68 kg) and stand about 6 ft (1.8 m) tall at birth. Calves are usually able to stand and walk within an hour of birth and grow rapidly, gaining about 3 lbs (1.4 kg) per day during their first year. They start to nibble on vegetation within a few weeks of birth but continue to nurse for up to 9-12 months. Giraffes reach sexual maturity at different ages, with females becoming sexually mature at around 3-4 years old and males at around 4-5 years old. However, males do not start mating until they are older & capable of competing with other males.

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Giraffes in the wild typically live up to 20 to 25 years. Their lifespan in the wild can be affected by various factors, such as predation, disease, environmental conditions, and food availability. Predators such as lions, hyenas, & crocodiles primarily threaten young and weak individuals. The extended lifespan in captivity is 30 years, with some individuals even reaching up to 35 years, due to the absence of predators, regular veterinary care, a consistent supply of food, and a controlled environment that can reduce the risks associated with their natural habitats.

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CHEETAHS

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Cheetahs are the fastest land animals, capable of reaching speeds up to 60-70 miles/hour (97-113 kilometers/hour) in short bursts covering distances up to 1,640 ft (500 m). They can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour (0 to 97 kilometers per hour) in just a few seconds, faster than most sports cars. Cheetahs rely on their speed and agility to hunt. They use a burst of speed to catch prey, often tripping it with a swipe of their paw before delivering a suffocating bite to the neck. Despite their speed, cheetahs have a hunting success rate of about 50%, as they can be easily displaced by larger predators like lions and hyenas, which can steal their kills.

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Cheetahs have a lightweight frame, long legs, a flexible spine, large nasal passages, and a deep chest, contributing to their incredible speed. They have a high proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are essential for explosive bursts of speed. Unlike other big cats, cheetahs have non-retractable claws that provide extra grip during high-speed chases, similar to cleats on a track. Their long & muscular tail acts as a rudder, helping them maintain balance and make sharp turns while pursuing prey. However, running at top speed generates a lot of body heat, and cheetahs risk overheating if they run too long. After a sprint, they need time to cool down and recover. If the hunt is successful, they need to wait more than 30 minutes to catch their breath before they’re able to eat. Also, high-speed chases are energy-intensive, so cheetahs spend a significant amount of time to rest and recuperate between hunts.

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Cheetahs have excellent eyesight, particularly for spotting prey during the day. Unlike many other big cats, cheetahs are primarily diurnal, meaning they hunt during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Their eyesight is optimized for daytime hunting, with a high concentration of cone cells in their retinas that enhance their ability to see in bright light.They also have excellent visual acuity, allowing them to spot prey from distances of up to 3 miles (5 km). This sharp vision helps them identify and track potential prey while remaining undetected. The distinctive black “tear marks” running from the inner corners of their eyes down to the sides of their mouths help reduce glare from the sun and enhance focus on prey. During a high-speed chase, a cheetah’s head remains remarkably stable despite the rapid movement of its body. This stability helps maintain focus on the target, ensuring precise coordination during the chase.

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Unlike lions, female cheetahs are generally solitary, except when raising cubs. Male cheetahs often form small groups known as a “coalition”, which usually consists of brothers from the same litter. Being a part of a coalition provides several benefits, including improved hunting success, better protection from predators and rival males, and increased chances of securing territories and mates. Male coalitions are very territorial and actively patrol and defend their territories from other males. Territories are marked with scent markings such as urine and feces to signal their presence to other cheetahs. While female home ranges are larger & more fluid, male territories are smaller and more rigidly defended. Female ranges often overlap with several male territories, allowing them to interact with males.

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Cheetahs typically live about 10 to 12 years in the wild and about 15 to 20 years in captivity. In the wild, cub mortality rates are high, with only about 30% of cubs surviving to adulthood. This high mortality is due to predation and other environmental challenges. Cheetahs are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with an estimated population of around 7,000 individuals left in the wild. Their numbers are declining due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching.

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HYENAS

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There are four species of hyenas: the spotted hyena, the brown hyena, the striped hyena, and the aardwolf. The spotted hyena is the most well-known and studied species, often referred to simply as the hyena. Hyenas are found in various habitats across Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in savannas, grasslands, woodlands, and even mountainous regions. In spotted hyenas, females are larger and more dominant than males, while in other hyena species, males and females are more similar in size. Hyenas generally have a robust build, with strong necks and powerful jaws. The spotted hyena, in particular, has a distinctive sloping back due to its shorter hind legs. Hyenas are highly intelligent animals, capable of problem-solving and working together to solve complex tasks, demonstrating cognitive abilities comparable to some primates.

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Spotted hyenas live in large and complex social groups called clans, which can consist of up to 80 individuals. These clans are matriarchal as female spotted hyenas are larger and more aggressive than males. They hold higher ranks in the social hierarchy and have priority access to food and breeding opportunities. Contrary to popular belief, spotted hyenas are skilled hunters & not just scavengers. They hunt in groups and can take down large prey such as wildebeest, zebras, and antelope. Hyenas have incredibly powerful jaws capable of crushing bones. This allows them to access marrow and nutrients that other predators can’t reach. Their digestive system can process almost all parts of their prey, including bones and hooves. While they are effective hunters, hyenas are also opportunistic scavengers and will steal kills from other predators or consume carrion when available, thanks to their robust immune system.

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One of the most fascinating facts about female spotted hyenas is their unique and complex reproductive anatomy that includes an enlarged clitoris, often referred to as a pseudo-penis. The pseudo-penis is linked to the matriarchal society of spotted hyenas and helps establish & maintain social dominance among females. It also allows female hyenas greater control over mating by retracting their pseudo-penis to refuse copulation, giving them the ability to choose their mates selectively. Through this process females select only the most persistent and fit males to mate with, ensuring strong genetic contributions. However, female hyenas give birth through the pseudo-penis, which makes for a very narrow & convoluted birth canal, leading to high risks during childbirth. Many firsttime mothers experience complications, and a significant number of cubs do not survive the birthing process.

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BLACK-BACKED

JACKALS

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The black-backed jackal has a characteristic black saddle of fur on its back. They have slender bodies, pointed ears, and bushy tails. African jackals are found in various habitats across the continent, including savannas, grasslands, deserts, and bushlands. They’re highly adaptable and can thrive in both arid and more temperate regions. Jackals are omnivores and while they’re capable hunters (quite efficient in catching rodents, birds, and insects), jackals often scavenge and are known to follow larger predators like lions and hyenas to feed on leftover kills. They’re fast and agile runners, capable of reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour (64 km/h). This helps them escape predators and chase down prey.

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Jackals typically form monogamous pairs that mate for life. These pairs often work together to defend their territory and raise their offspring. Jackal pairs may be assisted by older offspring, who help care for the new pups, creating small family groups. Jackals typically breed once a year. The breeding season can vary depending on the species and geographic location, but it often occurs in the winter months. After a gestation period of about 60 to 70 days, the female gives birth to a litter of 2 to 6 pups. The pups are born blind & helpless, relying on their parents for protection and nourishment. In the wild, jackals typically live for about 8 to 10 years. In captivity, they can live up to 14 to 16 years due to better nutrition and medical care.

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WILDEBEESTS

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Wildebeests belong to the Bovidae family, which also includes cattle, goats, and antelopes. There are two species of wildebeests: the blue wildebeest and the black wildebeest. Blue wildebeests are larger, with males weighing up to 640 lbs (290 kg) and standing about 4.5 ft (1.4 m) tall at the shoulder. Black wildebeests are slightly smaller. Wildebeests have a robust and muscular build, with large heads, curved horns, and distinctive facial features. The blue wildebeest has a dark, bluish-gray coat, while the black wildebeest has a dark brown to black coat with a tufted tail. They are primarily found in Africa’s savannas & grasslands. Blue wildebeests are commonly seen in East Africa, particularly in Tanzania and Kenya, while black wildebeests are found in South Africa.

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Wildebeests are highly social animals that live in large herds. The herds can consist of hundreds to thousands of individuals, especially during the migration. Within these large herds, wildebeests form smaller sub-groups based on age, sex, and social status. These sub-groups include bachelor herds of males (that do not yet have territories or are not competing for mates, providing safety in numbers and a social structure for males outside of the breeding season), nursery groups of females and their calves (stable & cohesive matrilineal groups providing social bonds & protection for the young), and territorial males (adult males establishing and defending territories, especially during breeding season).

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Wildebeests are herbivores and primarily grazers, preferring fresh, short grasses. They feed on short grasses and are well adapted to the savanna ecosystem, where they play a vital role in maintaining the grasslands. On average, an adult wildebeest consumes about 2.5 to 3.5% of its body weight in grasses each day. For a wildebeest weighing around 550 lbs (250 kg), this amounts to approximately 14-19 lbs (6.4-8.6 kg) of grass daily. When you multiply that by the impressively large number of the herd individuals, they consume more than 4,000 tons of grass every day. This is why wildebeests constantly move in search of fresh grass during their annual migration. Also, their grazing patterns help maintain the health of the grasslands, and their migrations are vital for nutrient cycling and habitat diversity.

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The Wildebeest migration, often referred to as the Great Migration, is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth and recognized as one of the “Seven Wonders of the Natural World.”. This annual journey involves over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras & gazelles, moving across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in Kenya and Tanzania. The migration is a year-round process. It typically begins in the southern Serengeti during the calving season in January & February, moves northward towards the Maasai Mara (Kenya) during the dry season from July-October, & returns south to Serengeti (Tanzania) as the short rains begin in November and December.

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The gestation period for a wildebeest is approximately 8 to 8.5 months. They breed around the peak of the rainy season to ensure that calves are born when food is most abundant. One of the most remarkable aspects of wildebeest reproduction is the synchronization of calving. More than 500 thousand calves are born over a period of two to three weeks between January and February, in the southern Serengeti. The calves can stand within minutes of birth, and within a few hours, they can run. This rapid development is crucial for keeping up with the migrating herd and avoiding predators. Mothers are highly attentive to their calves, keeping them close and providing milk. Calves are weaned at about 6 months of age but will start to graze on grass within a few weeks of birth. Wildebeest calves reach sexual maturity at around 1.5-2 years of age. However, males may not start breeding until they are older and have established dominance.

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ZEBRAS

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Zebras belong to the Equidae family, which includes horses and donkeys. There are three species of zebras in Africa: plains zebra, mountain zebra, and the Grevy’s zebra. Plains zebras are the most common and range in size from 4.6-5.25 ft (1.4-1.6 m) at the shoulder, weighing between 770-990 lbs (350-450 kg). Mountain zebras and Grevy’s zebras are generally slightly smaller and larger, respectively. They inhabit a variety of environments, including savannas, grasslands, and mountainous regions. Plains zebras are the most widespread, while mountain and Grevy’s zebras are more restricted to specific areas.

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A group of zebras is called a zea or a dazzle. The basic social unit of plains zebras is the harem, which consists of one dominant stallion, several mares, and their offspring. Harems can range from a few individuals to over a dozen members. The bonds within a harem are strong and long-lasting. The stallion is highly protective of his mares and will defend them against rival males. Young males who have not yet established their own harems form bachelor groups. These groups are less stable and consist of several young males who live together until they can compete for and win their own harems. Within the harem, there is a hierarchy among the mares. The lead mare often has priority access to resources and decides the direction of movement. Several harems can come together to form larger herds, especially when migrating or during the dry season. These larger groups also provide additional protection against predators.

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No two zebras have the same stripe pattern. Each zebra’s pattern is unique, which can help individuals recognize one another. The stripes provide camouflage by breaking up the outline of the zebra’s body in the dappled light of their grassy and wooded habitats. This makes it harder for predators to single out an individual zebra. They also confuse predators, especially when zebras are in a group. The moving stripes can create a visual effect that makes it difficult for predators to focus on a single animal and even for flies and insects to be able to land on them. The black and white stripes also help with thermoregulation by creating small air currents on the zebra’s skin, helping to cool them down.

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Zebra calves are born with brown and white stripes, which gradually darken to black and white as they age. By the time the calf is about six months old, its stripes usually resemble those of an adult zebra. The brown color helps them blend into their surroundings better when they are very young to hide from predators. The fur is softer and fluffier compared to adult zebras, providing additional insulation and protection. The stripe pattern of a zebra calf is already defined at birth and will remain the same throughout its life. The exact pattern is actually determined early in embryonic development. This unique pattern helps the mother recognize her calf among so many other calves.

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Zebras predominantly feed on a variety of grasses and spend 60-80% of their time grazing, to ensure they meet their nutritional needs. They prefer young, tender shoots but will eat older, tougher grass if necessary. Their strong teeth are adapted to handle a high-fiber diet. They can also consume other plant parts like leaves, bark, stems, and even small shrubs to supplement their diet. Zebras often visit salt licks or mineral-rich soils to supplement their diet with essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sodium. Zebras often graze in areas with mixed vegetation, which provides a more balanced diet. That is why they join other herbivores like wildebeests, taking advantage of the areas they have grazed.

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Zebras need to drink water daily to stay hydrated. The exact amount varies depending on factors like temperature, diet, and activity level, but it’s typically around 8-10 liters per day for an adult zebra. Water is crucial for digesting the fibrous grasses that make up the bulk of a zebra’s diet. It helps break down food in the stomach and aids in the fermentation process in the hindgut. Zebras are known to travel long distances to find water, especially during the dry season when water sources are scarce. They often rely on their memory and knowledge of the landscape to locate water holes. However, like many desert-adapted animals, zebras have evolved to be efficient in their water use. They can tolerate some dehydration and have physiological adaptations to conserve water, like concentrating their urine.

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The gestation period for zebras is around 12 to 14 months, depending on the species, as the lengthy gestation period is necessary for the development of the foal. Within a few hours of birth, a zebra foal can stand and walk, crucial for their survival, as they need to keep up with the herd to avoid predators. Zebra foals grow rapidly, and they can start grazing on grass within a few weeks of birth. However, they continue to nurse for several months to supplement their diet. Females reach sexual maturity between 2 to 3 years of age, while males may take longer to mature and establish themselves in the breeding population.

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Plains zebras typically live for around 20 to 30 years and play many key roles in maintaining ecosystem health and functioning. They are an important food source for large predators such as lions, hyenas, & wild dogs. They help support predator populations and maintain the balance of predator-prey relationships. They also serve as indicator species for the health of grassland ecosystems. Changes in zebra populations or behavior can indicate underlying changes in the ecosystem. Through their grazing & dung deposition, zebras contribute to nutrient cycling in the ecosystem. Their dung provides important nutrients for plants and helps improve soil fertility.

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THE

CROSSING

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Mara River is a vital waterway in East Africa, known for its significant role in the Great Migration, one of the most extraordinary wildlife events on the planet. The crossing of the Mara River, running through Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve and the northern Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, is one of the most spectacular & dramatic part of the migration. This event is a crucial part of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores move in search of fresh grazing. The crossing typically occurs between July and October, though the exact timing can vary based on rainfall patterns and availability of fresh grass.

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The crossing begins when a large group of wildebeests, often accompanied by zebras, arrives at the banks of Mara River. Wildebeests can be very indecisive about crossing the river, sometimes waiting for hours or even changing their minds. However, it only takes one brave (or overly eager) individual to start the crossing. But once the first wildebeest enters the water, the rest follow, creating a one-of-akind spectacle that attracts millions of visitors to the Mara River year after year. We have been fortunate to witness this phenomenon three times over the years and document it for your viewing pleasure.

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Crossing the Mara River is the most challenging part of the Great Migration for animals in search of fresh grass. The swift currents and steep banks of the river, physical injuries from stampedes, and exhaustion all contribute to the difficulty of the journey. Predators like Nile crocodiles wait in the water, while land predators such as leopards, hyenas, and lions take advantage of the chaos to hunt the crossing animals. This perilous ordeal is a true test of survival for the participants. Although it is all part of the circle of life, some aspects of the crossing are not for the faint of heart. The sight of animals struggling against the swift currents, the dangers posed by predators, and the chaos of stampedes can be both aweinspiring and heart-wrenching.

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IMPALAS

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Impalas are antelopes found in the savannas and woodlands of eastern and southern Africa. They have a reddish-brown coat with lighter underparts. They also have distinct black stripes running down their sides and white markings on their face, ears, and tail. Both males and females have slender, lyre-shaped horns, but male impalas (rams) have longer and more robust horns than females (ewes). They are known for their incredible leaping ability. They can jump distances of up to 33 feet (10 meters) and heights of around 10 feet (3 meters) to escape predators or obstacles. Impalas are constantly alert for predators. They have excellent eyesight and hearing, which help them detect danger early and evade capture. Impalas typically form large herds, which provide protection against predators. These herds are led by a dominant male and can consist of hundreds of individuals.

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Impalas are herbivores, feeding on a variety of grasses, herbs, shrubs, and foliage. They’re selective feeders, choosing the most nutritious parts of plants. While they survive for long periods without water (hydrating from the grass they eat), they prefer to drink regularly if water is available, especially during the dry season. The breeding season, or rut, occurs during the rainy season when food is plentiful. This is typically between November and December. After a gestation period of about six to seven months, females give birth to a single calf, usually in a secluded area away from the herd. Newborn calves are able to stand and run shortly after birth, which helps them evade predators and join the herd within a few days of birth.

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GAZELLES

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There are around 19 species of gazelles, including Grant’s gazelle, Thomson’s gazelle & dama gazelle. They are found across various habitats in Africa, from savannas and grasslands to semi-arid regions and deserts. Gazelles are easily recognizable by their slender bodies, long legs, and strikingly curved horns, which are present in both males and females in some species. They are incredibly fast runners, capable of reaching speeds up to 60 mph (97 km/h) to evade predators. Their agility allows them to make quick, sharp turns. Gazelles typically live in herds, which can range from a few individuals to several hundred. Herds provide safety in numbers and help protect against predators.

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Male gazelles have longer and more robust horns compared to females. The horns are often curved and ridged, used primarily for defense & fighting during territorial disputes. They are highly territorial, especially during the breeding season. They establish and defend territories that they mark with scent glands located near their eyes, hooves, and tails. They use their horns to fight off intruders and rivals. These fights can be intense & involve headbutting, horn locking, and pushing. During the breeding season, males perform courtship displays to attract females, which can include a series of leaps and vocalizations, & other visual signals to demonstrate their fitness and strength. Gazelles have specific breeding seasons, timed with the rainy season when food is abundant. After a gestation period of about six months, females give birth to one or two fawns.In the wild, gazelles can live up to 10-12 years.

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WATERBUCKS

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African waterbucks are large, robust antelopes found near water sources across sub-Saharan Africa. They are easily recognized by their white “bib” on their throat and a white ring of hair on their rumps, which looks like a target. True to their name, waterbucks are almost always found near water. They need to drink daily & use water bodies as a refuge from predators. They have a strong musky odor due to a secretion from their skin glands, which may help deter predators and parasites. Male waterbucks are larger than females, standing about 50-54 in (127-136 cm) at the shoulder and weighing between 440-660 lbs (200-300 kg).Only males have horns, which are long, ridged, and curve backward and then forward, growing up to 39 inc (1m) in length, making them formidable weapons and impressive visual features.

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Waterbucks have a shaggy, water-resistant coat that helps protect them from getting soaked during heavy rains. This coat is oily, which repels water and keeps their skin dry and warm. The coat is coated with a special oily secretion from their skin glands. This oily substance helps to create a barrier that prevents water from penetrating the fur and reaching the skin. Waterbucks often use water bodies as a refuge from predators. Their ability to wade or swim without becoming waterlogged allows them to escape threats more effectively. Waterbucks graze in areas where the grass is often wet due to dew or rain. A water-resistant coat enables them to feed comfortably without their fur becoming saturated.

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Waterbucks are social animals, typically found in herds ranging from small groups of a few individuals to larger groups of up to 30 animals. Herds are usually composed of females and their young, while males are either solitary or in bachelor groups. Mature males establish & defend territories, which they mark with their scent. They engage in displays and fights to maintain their dominance and attract females.

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Waterbucks are primarily grazers, feeding on grasses and occasionally on leaves and other vegetation. They are particularly fond of lush grasses found near water sources. They sometimes feed on aquatic plants, taking advantage of their proximity to water bodies.

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Waterbucks do not have a specific breeding season & can breed throughout the year. The gestation period for waterbucks is approximately 8 months and females typically give birth to a single calf, although twins are rare. Females usually give birth in a secluded area with dense vegetation to provide cover and protection from predators. After birth, the calf remains hidden in vegetation for the first few weeks of life. This hiding phase helps protect the calf from predators. The mother visits the hidden calf to nurse it several times a day. She is very protective and vigilant during this period. After a few weeks, the calf is strong enough to join the mother and integrate into the herd. The calf will continue to nurse for several months before being fully weaned. Calves reach sexual maturity at around 2 to 3 years of age.

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African elands are the largest antelopes found in Africa, known for their large size, impressive horns, and distinctive appearance. Males stand at around 5.2 ft (1.6 m) at the shoulder and weigh more than 2,000 lbs (900 kg). Despite their large size, elands are surprisingly agile. They can run at speeds of up to 40 miles/hour (64 km/hr) and can jump distances of over 8 ft (2.5 m) from a standing position. Both males and females have horns, which are spiral-shaped and can grow up to 3.3 ft (1 m) long. The horns are used for defense and in dominance displays. Eland horns grow continuously throughout the animal’s life, with males typically having larger and more impressive horns than females. The growth of the horns is marked by rings called annuli, which can be used to estimate the age of the animal.

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Elands are social animals and their social behavior is very similar to that of elephants. Eland herds can vary in size but are typically composed of adult females, juveniles, and calves. Calves stay close to their mothers for protection and guidance. Adult males are often solitary or form small bachelor groups (they form temporary alliances during mating season to increase their chances of mating with females). Herds are led by a dominant female, known as the matriarch, who makes decisions about when and where to move. Elands coexist with other herbivores, such as zebras and wildebeests, sharing grazing areas and alerting each other to potential threats. They are vigilant and use their keen senses to detect predators. They will often form a defensive circle, with calves in the center, when threatened by predators like lions or hyenas.

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Elands are herbivores and feed on grasses, leaves, and fruits. They are selective feeders, choosing the most nutritious plants available. While elands can survive for long periods without water, they will drink regularly if water is available. During the breeding season, dominant males (bulls) compete for access to females (cows) by displaying their dominance through vocalizations, posturing, and physical interactions like chasing and circling. Elands do not have a specific breeding season and can breed throughout the year. After a gestation period of around 9 months, females give birth to a single calf. Calves can stand and walk shortly after birth and join the herd within a few days. Calves grow quickly and are weaned at around 6-9 months of age. At around 2-3 years, they reach sexual maturity at around 2-3 years old, depending on environmental conditions and food availability.

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TOPIS

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Topis are a type of antelope found in sub-Saharan Africa. Topis prefer savannas, floodplains, and open grasslands where they have access to abundant grasses and water sources.They are found across a wide range of countries including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and South Sudan. Topis have a distinctive reddish-brown coat with darker patches on their upper legs and faces. Their coats can appear glossy in the sunlight. Both male and female topis have S-shaped horns, which can grow up to 27 in (70 cm) in length. The horns are ringed and slightly ridged. Topis are medium-sized antelopes, with males weighing around 287 lbs (130 kg) & females being slightly smaller. Topis are known for their speed & agility, capable of running at speeds up to 43 mph (70 km/) to escape predators.

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Topis are primarily grazers, feeding on a variety of grasses. They prefer fresh, green grass and will migrate to find the best grazing areas. They need regular access to water and are often found near water sources. Topis are social animals & are often found in herds that can range from small groups to large aggregations of up to several hundred individuals. Males establish and defend territories during the breeding season. These territories are often marked by dung piles and scent markings. The breeding season for topis typically occurs at the end of the rainy season. This timing ensures that food is abundant when the calves are born, increasing their chances of survival. Males engage in a behavior known as lekking. During lekking, males gather in a specific area known as a lek and display to attract females. Males compete for the best display spots within the lek, which increases their chances of mating with females.

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Many topi populations synchronize their breeding so that a large number of calves are born within a short period. This saturation strategy helps overwhelm predators with more young than they can consume, increasing the survival rate of individual calves. The gestation period for topis is approximately 8 months. This relatively long gestation period ensures that the calves are well-developed at birth. Newborn calves remain hidden in tall grass or bush cover for the first few weeks of their lives. During the hiding phase, mothers visit their calves several times a day to nurse them. After the hiding phase, calves join the main herd with their mothers, learning essential survival skills and social behaviors. Topis reach sexual maturity at about 2 to 3 years of age. Females may begin breeding as soon as they reach maturity, while males need more time to gain the strength and experience required to hold a territory.

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KLIPSPRINGERS

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Klipspringers are small, agile antelopes native to the rocky terrains of eastern and southern Africa. Their name means “rock jumper” in Afrikaans, which reflects their incredible ability to navigate rocky environments. They stand at about 20-24 in (50-60 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 18-40 lbs (8-18 kg). They have specialized, rubbery hooves with cylindrical shapes that allow them to grip rocky surfaces with precision. This adaptation helps them move effortlessly across steep, uneven terrain. They can leap up to 10 ft (3 m) in a single bound. This agility helps them escape predators & navigate their rocky habitats. Klipspringers are primarily browsers, feeding on leaves, shoots, fruits, and flowers. They get most of their water from the moisture in their food, allowing them to survive in arid environments.

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DIK-DIKS

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Dik-diks are among the smallest antelope species, standing about 12-16 in (30-40 cm) tall at the shoulder. They have large, dark eyes, elongated noses, and short, pointed horns. Their fur is usually gray or brown, with lighter underparts. Dik-diks have preorbital glands located in front of their eyes. These glands produce a dark, sticky substance used for marking territory and communicating with other dik-diks. They typically form monogamous pairs that mate for life. Both the male and female participate in raising their offspring. Dik-diks are known for their keen senses and are extremely alert to potential threats. They have a distinctive “zick-zick” alarm call that alerts other animals to danger. When threatened, they use their speed and agility to dart into dense vegetation, making it difficult for predators to follow. Dik-diks prefer dense bushland & dry, thorny scrub habitats where they can easily hide from predators. They are selective feeders, preferring young leaves, shoots, fruits, and berries.

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WARTHOGS

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Warthogs have large, flat heads with prominent warts (which are thick growths of skin) on their faces. These warts protect them during fights and from predators. They’re fast runners and can reach speeds of up to 30 mph (50 km/h) to escape predators. Both males & females have tusks, but those of males are larger and more curved. The upper tusks can grow up to 10 in (25 cm) long and are used for digging and defense. They have sparse hair on their bodies, but a mane of longer hair runs down their backs, giving them a distinctive look. Warthogs often kneel on their front knees to graze. Their calloused knees provide protection while they feed on short grasses and roots. They use burrows for shelter. They enter the burrow backward, allowing them to defend themselves with their tusks facing outward.

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Warthogs are found in savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands across sub-Saharan Africa. They are omnivorous, feeding on grasses, roots, berries, and bark. They also eat insects, small mammals, and carrion when available to supplement their diet with some protein. Warthogs have poor eyesight but an excellent sense of smell, which they use to locate food & detect predators. They need regular access to water and are often seen drinking and wallowing in mud to cool off & protect their skin from insects and sunburn. They are active during the day and rest at night and live in groups called sounders, consisting of females and their young. Males may live alone or form bachelor groups.

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During the breeding season, males, known as boars, seek out females, known as sows. Males may fight each other for the right to mate with a female, using their tusks in aggressive displays. Mating often involves multiple encounters over a period of days. The gestation period for warthogs is 5-6 months and a litter of 2 to 8 piglets.

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The sow nurses her piglets several times a day and will defend them aggressively against threats. Warthogs reach sexual maturity at about 18 to 20 months of age. However, males often do not mate until they are older and capable of competing with other males for access to females. They can live up to 15 years in the wild.

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MONKEYS

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216 species of monkeys (111 in the mainland & 105 found in Madagascar) live in Africa. They come in various sizes, colors, and shapes, from the tiny talapoin monkey to baboons and the mandrill (the largest & most colorful monkey species known for its vibrant blue and red facial coloration). Many African monkeys are arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in trees. Their bodies are adapted for climbing, with strong limbs and dexterous hands and feet. Many have long, prehensile tails that help them balance & navigate through the trees. African monkeys inhabit a range of environments, such as tropical rainforests, savannas, woodlands, mountains, and riverine and swamp forests.

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Social structures of African monkeys are diverse and complex, varying significantly among different species and shaped by factors such as habitat, diet, and evolutionary history. For example, Vervet monkeys live in multi-male, multi-female groups with 10-50 monkeys. Groups are characterized by a matrilineal structure, where females remain in their natal group while males leave upon reaching sexual maturity.

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Female hierarchies are stable and passed down through generations, while male hierarchies are more fluid due to the influx of new males. Grooming plays a crucial role in maintaining social bonds and hierarchies. Strong bonds are formed among related females, who support each other in conflicts.

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Most African monkeys are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. By including meat in their diet, they can exploit a wider range of food resources. This dietary flexibility helps them survive in diverse habitats and during seasonal changes when some food sources might become limited. Their diets can include fruits, leaves, seeds, flowers, insects, & small animals. Many species spend a considerable amount of time foraging for food. Their diet varies with the seasons. During the dry season, when fruits are scarce, they may rely more on leaves & bark. Many African monkeys, such as vervet monkeys and baboons, have cheek pouches. These pouches allow them to gather food quickly and then retreat to a safe location to eat. Leaf-eating monkeys have complex stomachs that are specially adapted to break down fibrous plant material. This allows them to extract maximum nutrients from their diet. The teeth of different monkey species are adapted to their diets. For example, some species have broad, flat molars for grinding fruit, while some monkeys have sharp molars for cutting leaves.

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Grooming is a central aspect of the social lives of African monkeys, serving as much more than just a way to stay clean. This behavior is deeply ingrained in their social structures, communication, and overall well-being. One of the primary functions of grooming among African monkeys is to strengthen social bonds. Grooming helps to establish and maintain relationships between individuals within a group, fostering group cohesion and stability. By meticulously picking through each other’s fur, monkeys ensure that their companions remain healthy and free from infestations. Grooming often functions as social currency in monkey societies. Lower-ranking individuals may groom higher-ranking ones to gain favor and reduce aggression. In return, they might receive protection or access to resources. Last but not least, the act of grooming is known to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It triggers the release of endorphins, making it a pleasurable experience for both the groomer and the groomed.

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Breeding seasons can vary by species and location, but many monkeys give birth during times when there is an abundance of food. Some monkeys mate with multiple males. This behavior increases their genetic diversity of the offspring and can prevent infanticide by confusing paternity. Monkey’s Gestation periods vary but typically range from 5 to 7 months, depending on the species. Mothers are the primary caregivers for their young, nursing and protecting them until they are old enough to fend for themselves. In colobus monkey groups, allomothering (care provided by individuals other than biological mother) is common. Other females, often relatives, assist in caring for the newborns. Newborn vervet monkeys are highly dependent on their mothers, who provide continuous care and grooming. The mother and infant bond is strong and very crucial for the infant’s development. Infant baboons ride on their mother’s back or cling to her belly. Mothers are very protective, and other females, often relatives, also help care for the young.

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ROCK RABBITS

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Despite its name, the African rock rabbit is not a rabbit at all. It belongs to a group of mammals called hyraxes, which are more closely related to elephants and manatees than to rabbits or rodents. Hyraxes have unique teeth that are similar to those of elephants. Their upper incisors grow continuously and look like small tusks. They are well adapted to rocky habitats and are great climbers, where they can be found sunning themselves on rocky outcrops and high branches or hiding in crevices to escape predators. They have adaptations that allow them to survive in their rocky habitats, including padded feet that help them grip the rocks and highly specialized kidneys that allow them to conserve water. Although they’re primarily diurnal, African rock rabbits are also known to be active at night, especially during the hot summer months when they may forage for food during the cooler nighttime hours.

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MONGOOSES

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Mongooses are small terrestrial carnivorous mammals found across Africa. They vary in size depending on the species, but they generally range from about 1-4 ft (30-120 cm) in length, including the tail. They have long, slender bodies with short legs. Their bodies are built for agility and speed, allowing them to navigate through complex environments and chase down prey. Mongooses have dense fur that can vary in color from gray & brown to reddish or yellowish. Some species have distinctive markings, such as stripes or spots, which help them camouflage in their natural habitats. They have sharp, pointed teeth adapted for carnivorous feeding. They have 36 to 40 teeth, including sharp canines for gripping and tearing flesh. Mongooses have sharp, non-retractable claws that are well-suited for digging and climbing. These claws also help them catch and hold onto prey. Mongooses have long, bushy tails that can be as long as their bodies. The tail is used for balance, especially when running or climbing.

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African mongooses are highly social animals, living in groups called “bands” or “packs” varying in size from just a few individuals to over 50, depending on the species. They are opportunistic feeders and have a varied diet that includes insects, small mammals, birds, eggs, fruits, and carrion. Some species are known for their ability to take on venomous snakes. African mongooses typically breed once or twice a year, depending on the species. Gestation periods vary but are generally around 2 months. Females give birth to litters of 2-6 young, which are born with their eyes closed. Mongooses are known for their playful behavior, which includes wrestling, chasing each other, and engaging in mock fights. This behavior helps strengthen social bonds within the group. Some species of mongooses have symbiotic relationships with other animals: the banded mongoose is known to form mutually beneficial relationships with hornbills, which help each other find food and watch for predators.

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AFRICAN

BIRDS

Among the many treasures (stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultures) Tanzania & Kenya offer, bird watching stands out as a particularly enchanting experience. Together, they create a bird watcher’s paradise, home to an astounding variety of avian species that attract enthusiasts from around the globe. Whether it’s the sight of thousands of flamingos turning a lake pink, the majestic flight of raptors over savannas, or the colorful display of endemic species, these countries provide unforgettable birding experiences.

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While known for the Great Migration of wildebeest, the Maasai Mara is also a bird watcher’s haven with more than 470 species. Additionally, Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha are some other key bird watching destinations in Kenya. The Serengeti is equally impressive for bird watching. With over 500 bird species, including ostriches, secretary birds, and the endemic grey-breasted spurfowl, the Serengeti offers a rich avian experience. Ngorongoro Crater and Selous Game Reserve are additional bird watchers’ dreams in the beautiful Tanzania. In this section, we celebrate some of our most memorable bird encounters in Tanzania & Kenya. Some are accompanied by fascinating facts, while others are simply pictures with the species’ name, inviting you to explore and learn more about these incredible species.

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FLAMINGOS

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The two main species of flamingos found in various parts of Africa are the Greater Flamingo & the Lesser Flamingo. Since the sexes of each species also differ in height, Size is less helpful to distinguish the two species (unless they are together). The clearest difference between the two is the much more extensive black on the bill of the lesser flamingo. The Greater flamingos can be as tall as 4.7 ft (1.5 m) with a wingspan ranging from 4.9 -5.9 ft (1.5-1.8 m). They typically weigh between 4.4- 9.9 lbs (2-4.5 kg). They are found in a variety of habitats, including saline lakes, estuaries, and lagoons. They are known for their ability to thrive in environments with high salt content, where their specialized bills help them filter out algae and other food sources.

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Flamingos are filter feeders, using their uniquely shaped bills to filter out algae, small crustaceans, and other microscopic organisms from the water. They often feed by wading in shallow water, where they stir up the bottom with their feet and then filter out the food with their bills. The pink color of flamingos comes from the carotenoid pigments in their diet, which are found in algae & other food sources. The pink color of flamingos comes from the carotenoid pigments in their diet, which are found in algae and other food sources. The carotenoids are then deposited in the flamingo’s feathers, skin, and even their beaks, giving them their characteristic pink color. The intensity of a flamingo’s pink color can vary based on factors such as age, diet, and overall health. Flamingos that are well-fed and healthy tend to have brighter pink plumage, which is often used as a visual signal of their health and fitness to potential mates.

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Flamingos are social birds and are often seen feeding, nesting, and migrating in large groups. They are known for their vocalizations, which include honking and grunting sounds. Despite their large size, flamingos are strong fliers and can travel long distances between their feeding and breeding grounds. They fly in V-shaped formations, similar to other migratory birds. This formation helps reduce wind resistance and allows them to conserve energy during their long journeys. Their migration is timed to coincide with seasonal changes in food availability and breeding conditions. They may migrate to breeding sites in the dry season, when water levels are lower and food is more concentrated, and return to feeding grounds during the wet season.

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During the breeding season, flamingos perform elaborate courtship displays to attract mates. These displays often involve synchronized movements, vocalizations, and the spreading of their wings to display their bright pink plumage. Flamingos form strong pair bonds with their mates, often staying together for many breeding seasons.

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Flamingos are colonial breeders, meaning they nest in large groups called colonies. They often build their nests out of mud or clay, which they shape into mounds to protect their eggs from flooding. Both parents take turns incubating the one egg and caring for the chick after it hatches. The chicks are born with a grayish downy plumage & are fed a special secretion called “crop milk” produced by the parents.

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PELICANS

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The Great White Pelican is one of the largest pelican species with an enormous wingspan, ranging up to about 12 ft (3.6 m), making it one of the largest flying birds. They typically measure up to 71 in (180 cm) in length from beak to tail and weigh up to 26 lbs (12 kg).Their large bill is a distinctive feature, often measuring up to 18.5 in (47 cm) in length. The bill is equipped with a large, expandable throat pouch that can hold up to 3.4 gallons (13 liters) of water and fish. Great White Pelicans are powerful fliers. Great White Pelicans are partially migratory, moving seasonally between breeding and feeding grounds. Some populations travel long distances, even reaching Europe and Asia. They often travel in V-formations or straight lines to reduce air resistance, which helps conserve energy during long flights.

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Great White Pelicans primarily feed on fish, which they catch using their long bills and expandable throat pouches. They’re opportunistic feeders & will also eat amphibians, crustaceans, and small birds if available. They can eat up to 3 lb (1.4 kg) of fish per day. Great White Pelicans are known for their cooperative fishing techniques. They form a semicircle in shallow waters & work together to herd fish into concentrated areas where they can easily scoop them up. Despite their size, they are excellent swimmers. They have air sacs in their bones that increase buoyancy, allowing them to float effortlessly on water.

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These pelicans breed in large colonies that can consist of hundreds or even thousands of pairs, often on isolated islands or remote lakeshores to protect their eggs and chicks from predators. Their nests are typically built on the ground, often in shallow depressions. They construct nests using sticks, reeds, grass, and other vegetation. They lay 1-3 eggs, incubation period lasts about 29 to 36 days, and both parents take turns incubating them and feeding the chicks once they hatch. Chicks grow rapidly and fledge (develop the feathers necessary for flight) after about 10 to 12 weeks. However, they may stay with the parents for several more weeks to learn essential survival skills. Pelicans can live for 15-25 years in the wild.

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VULTURES

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Africa is home to several species of vultures, including the African White-backed Vulture, Lappet-faced Vulture, Rüppell’s Vulture, Hooded Vulture, , and the critically endangered White-headed Vulture. The Lappet-faced Vulture is the largest one with a height of up to 45 in (115 cm) and a wingspan of 9.5 ft (2.9 m). The smallest African vulture is the Hooded Vulture with a height of up to 28 in (70 cm) and a wingspan of 5.6 ft (1.7 m). Vultures have strong, hooked beaks that are ideal for tearing through tough animal hides and muscles. This feature allows them to access the meat inside carcasses. Many vultures have bald or sparsely feathered heads & necks. This adaptation helps keep them clean while feeding on carcasses, as feathers would trap bacteria and blood. The skin on their heads ad necks can be various colors, including pink, red, yellow, or gray, often changing in response to their emotional state.

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Vultures have excellent eyesight, allowing them to spot carcasses from great distances while soaring high in the sky. Their vision is much sharper than that of humans, enabling them to locate food across vast landscapes. Their broad wings are adapted for soaring and gliding, allowing them to cover large distances with minimal effort. They use thermals, rising columns of warm air, to stay aloft and search for food without flapping their wings frequently and spending much energy. Vultures have dense, layered feathers that provide insulation and protection from the sun. The feathers on their wings and body are usually dark, helping with thermoregulation by absorbing heat from the sun.

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Vultures are remarkable scavengers with several unique adaptations and behaviors that make them highly efficient at consuming carrion. Vultures are nature’s clean-up crew. By consuming dead animals, they prevent the spread of diseases that can arise from rotting carcasses. They have highly acidic stomachs that can digest decaying meat and kill harmful bacteria & pathogens. This allows them to safely consume carrion that would be dangerous for other animals. Different vulture species often feed together at a carcass, each utilizing its own unique adaptations. For example, larger vultures might open up tough hides, while smaller vultures can access the softer tissues. This cooperative feeding reduces competition and ensures that every part of the carcass is consumed.The social hierarchy at a carcass is usually determined by size and strength, with larger species getting the best feeding spots.

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Many African vultures, such as the African White-backed Vulture and the Hooded Vulture, build their nests in tall trees. They prefer large, sturdy trees that can support their sizable nests. Lappet-faced Vulture sometimes nests on the ground, especially in areas where large trees are scarce. They select secluded spots with minimal disturbance. Most African vulture species lay a single egg per breeding season coinciding with periods of food abundance. Both parents share incubation duties, taking turns to keep the egg warm. Incubation periods can range from about 46-56 days, depending on the species. After hatching, vulture chicks are altricial, meaning they are born helpless & require extensive parental care. Both parents are involved in feeding and protecting the chick. The chicks are fed regurgitated food by their parents. This nutrient-rich food is essential for their growth and development. The fledging period, when the chicks develop the ability to fly and leave the nest, can vary significantly among species, ranging from 80 to 130 days.

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MARIBOU

STORKS

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The Marabou Storks, often referred to as the “undertaker bird” due to their somewhat grim appearance, are opportunistic feeders and scavengers. They consume a wide variety of food, including carrion, fish, frogs, insects, small mammals, and even garbage. They’re very large birds, standing up to 5 ft (1.5 m) tall with a wingspan of up to 10.5 ft (3.2 m). Like most vultures, they have a bald head and neck, which is an adaptation for their scavenging lifestyle, helping them stay clean while feeding on carrion. They possess a distinctive inflatable throat pouch, which can be used in mating displays and to cool down in hot weather. Marabou Storks are found in sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting a range of environments including savannas, wetlands, and near human settlements. They are often seen around landfill sites, abattoirs, and fishing villages where food is plentiful.

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Marabou Storks eat mainly carrion, scraps, and feces but will eat almost any animal matter they can swallow. They are opportunistic feeders and will often follow other scavengers to food sources. This behavior allows them to capitalize on the efforts of vultures without expending extra effort, especially given their large size. Marabou storks feed by day soaring high over the open country looking for food or frequently follow vultures which lead them to carrion. When feeding on carrion, marabous may wait for the vultures to cast aside a piece, steal a piece of meat from the vulture or wait until the vultures are done, avoiding direct competition and potential conflicts. Feeding alongside vultures also reduces the chances of aggressive interactions with other scavengers and predators. By being part of a larger group, Marabou Storks benefit from the safety in numbers.

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WHITE

STORKS

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There are 19 species of storks worldwide, including the most well-known White Stork. Many stork species are migratory, traveling long distances between breeding and wintering grounds. Storks are large birds, with long legs and necks. They als have long, sturdy bills that are adapted for catching and handling prey. White storks are up to 45 in (1.2 m) tall with the legs making up half their height and a wingspan of up to 7 ft (2.1 m). The Marabou Stork is the largest of the species. Storks are carnivorous and have a diverse diet that includes fish, frogs, insects, small mammals, and even other birds. Storks are generally silent but communicate through bill-clattering, which is often used during courtship and at the nest. Storks can live for several decades. In the wild, their lifespan ranges from 20 to 30 years.

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Storks migrate from Europe to Africa in late summer or early autumn, usually between August and October. The exact timing can vary depending on the species and individual populations. During this time, storks begin their journey southward to their wintering grounds in Africa, where they will spend the European winter. Their migration is triggered by factors such as changes in daylight hours, temperature (storks are sensitive to cold and prefer warmer climates), and food availability (storks rely on a diet of insects, small mammals, and other prey, which are more abundant in Africa during the European winter), which signal to the storks that it is time to start their long journey. The return migration from Africa to Europe occurs in the spring, around March or April, as storks begin their journey northward to their usual breeding grounds.

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OSTRICHES

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Ostriches are the largest and heaviest living birds. They can stand up to 9 ft (2.7 m) tall and weigh up to 320 lbs (145 kg). Ostriches have unique feathers that lack the interlocking structure found in most bird feathers. This gives their plumage a fluffy appearance. They have the largest eyes of any land animal, measuring about 2 inches (5 centimeters) in diameter. Their eyes are well-adapted for spotting predators from a distance. When threatened, ostriches can use their powerful legs to deliver a lethal kick. Their legs are strong enough to kill a lion. Male ostriches (cocks) are larger and heavier than females (hens). They have bigger bodies and thicker legs. Males have black feathers with white primary feathers and tail plumes, while females have brownish-gray feathers.

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Despite their size, ostriches are incredibly fast runners and can sprint at speeds of up to 45 mph (72 kmph), making them also the fastest land birds. When threatened, use their speed to evade predators. They can change direction quickly while running to confuse their pursuers. They also use their powerful legs to deliver a lethal kick. Their legs are strong enough to kill a lion. They also may use other defensive behaviors, such as lying low to the ground to avoid detection or spreading their wings to appear larger and more intimidating.

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Ostriches are social birds that live in groups called flocks. A flock of ostriches usually has one dominant male and one dominant female along with subordinate males and females, as well as young birds. Flocks usually have about a dozen individuals, but some especially large groups hold up to 100 ostriches. Ostriches communicate with each other using a variety of vocalizations, including hisses, grunts, and booming calls. They also use visual displays, such as feather fluffing and dancing, to communicate dominance, submission, or readiness to mate. Ostriches are omnivorous and feed primarily on plants, seeds, and insects. They forage together as a group, using their keen eyesight to spot potential food sources. While foraging, they will take turns acting as sentinels, keeping watch for predators while the rest of the group feeds.

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Once a female has selected a mate, she will build a nest in a shallow depression in the ground, laying her eggs there. Other females in the group may also lay eggs in the same nest. Both males and females take turns incubating the eggs, with males primarily incubating them during the day and females at night. Ostrich eggs are the largest of any bird, and after an incubation period of about 42 days, the chicks hatch. The eggs can weigh up to 3 lbs (1.4 kg) and are about 6 in (15 cm) long. Ostrich chicks are covered in downy feathers with a mottled brown and gray appearance, providing them with camouflage. Ostrich chicks grow very quickly, gaining about 1 ft (30 cm) in height each month during their first six months. They can reach around 4.9 ft (1.5 m) in height by the time they are one year old. Both parents share the responsibility of caring for the chicks. They are highly protective of their chicks and will aggressively defend them from predators.

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OWLS

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Africa is home to a wide variety of owl species, including the African Scops Owl, Verreaux’s Eagle Owl (see image), Pearl-spotted Owlet, and the Southern White-faced Owl, African Scops Owl, among others. The largest African owl species in Africa is the Verreaux’s Eagle Owl. It is up to 26 in (18 cm) long and has a wingspan of up to 65 in (64 cm). The Scops Owl is the smallest owl in Africa with the length of up to 7 in (18 cm) and the wingspan of up to 18 in (45 cm).Many African owls have plumage that blends into their surroundings, providing excellent camouflage against predators and when hunting. Their feathers often resemble tree bark or leaves. They are known for their distinctive vocalizations. The African Scops Owl has a high-pitched, repetitive “prrrp” call, while the Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl produces deep, booming hoots.

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Unlike humans, owl eyes are fixed in their sockets and cannot move. To look around, owls must turn their entire heads, which they can do up to 270 degrees. They have proportionally large eyes compared to their body size. This allows for more light to enter the eye, enhancing their night vision & being effective nocturnal hunters. Their eyes face forward, providing binocular vision. This gives them excellent depth perception, crucial for judging distances when hunting prey. In addition to their amazing night vision, owls also have exceptional hearing and are able to fly very quietly. The edges of their wing feathers are serrated, which reduces noise and allows them to sneak up on their prey. This combination makes them a masterful hunter in the dark.

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HAWKS &

EAGLES

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EASTERN CHANTING

GOSHAWK

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Hawks and eagles are both birds of prey, belonging to the family Accipitridae, but they have distinct differences in terms of size, physical characteristics, behavior, & hunting strategies. Eagles are generally larger and more powerful than hawks. The Martial eagle and the Black sparrow-hawk are the largest of the two species in Africa. They also have more robust build with broader wingspans & larger bodies. Eagles also have larger, more powerful beaks designed for tearing flesh. Stronger talons for catching & holding onto larger prey. Often have a more pronounced brow ridge, giving them a fiercer appearance. Eagles hunt larger prey such as fish, small mammals, and other birds.Known for their powerful and majestic flight, soaring at great heights. Some species, like Bald Eagle, are also known to scavenge. Hawks, hunt smaller prey, including rodents, insects, and small birds.They use speed & agility to surprise and catch prey, often hunting in forests or open fields.

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Eagles are more solitary, often seen alone or in pairs, highly territorial, especially during the breeding season. Some species of hawks are more social and may hunt in loose groups.They are less territorial than eagles, but still exhibit strong territorial behaviors during breeding. Eagles prefer open habitats, such as mountains, forests, and large bodies of water. They build large nests called eyries in high places like cliffs or tall trees. They lay fewer eggs per clutch than hawks, but invest significant parental care in their offspring. Hawks are adaptable to a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts. Build smaller nests, typically in trees or on cliff ledges. They may have multiple broods in a season. Eagles have longer lifespans, with some species living up to 30 years or more in the wild while hawks live around 10-20 years in the wild.

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AFRICAN FISH

EAGLE

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TAWNY

EAGLE

MARTIAL

EAGLE

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LONG-CRESTED

EAGLE

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SECRETARYBIRD

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The African Secretarybird is a unique and fascinating bird of prey found in the savannas and grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa. They stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) tall, making them one of the tallest birds of prey. They have a distinctive crest of black feathers at the back of their heads, which resemble quill pens, leading to the name “Secretarybird.” Unlike most birds of prey that hunt from the air, Secretarybirds primarily hunt on the ground. They walk around with long strides, covering large distances in search of prey. Secretarybirds are known for their ability to hunt and kill snakes, including venomous ones, using their strong legs and sharp talons. They stamp on their prey to kill or stun it before swallowing it whole. Their diet also includes other small animals such as insects, rodents, lizards, and birds. In the wild, they can live up to 10-15 years.

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GREY CROWNED

CRANES

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Grey Crowned Cranes are easily recognized by their striking appearance. They have a distinctive golden-yellow crown of stiff feathers on their heads, giving them their name. Their plumage is primarily grey, with white wings that have feathers of various shades, including brown, gold, and black. They are native to the grasslands, savannas, and wetlands of eastern and southern Africa. They are common in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Grey Crowned Cranes are omnivorous. They feed on a variety of foods, including seeds, grasses, insects, small animals, and even reptiles. They have a preference for wetter areas where food is more abundant. In the wild, Grey Crowned Cranes can live up to 20-25 years.

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Grey Crowned Cranes are known for their elaborate courtship dances. These displays include bowing, jumping, running, and wing flapping, often accompanied by vocalizations. Dancing is not limited to courtship; cranes of all ages dance often and throughout the year, which helps strengthen their social bonds and communication. They have a variety of calls, including a loud, honking sound that can carry over long distances. Their calls are often used to communicate with each other and to mark their territory. They build their nests in wetlands, using plant materials to create a platform above the water. This helps protect their eggs and chicks from predators. The female usually lays 2-4 eggs, which both parents incubate for about 30 days. Grey Crowned Crane chicks are relatively mature and mobile shortly after hatching. They can leave the nest & follow their parents within a day or two of hatching. Both parents take part in caring for the chicks, teaching them how to forage and avoid predators.

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EGYPTIAN

GEESE

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The Egyptian Goose was considered sacred by the ancient Egyptians, often depicted in their artwork and hieroglyphs. They associated the bird with the god Geb, the god of the Earth. Egyptian Geese are easily recognizable by their striking plumage. They have a unique combination of brown, chestnut and white feathers, with a prominent dark brown patch around their eyes. Both sexes have similar plumage, though males are typically slightly larger. Despite their somewhat heavy build, Egyptian Geese are strong fliers. They often fly in small flocks and can cover considerable distances when searching for food or new habitats. Outside the breeding season, Egyptian Geese are often found in small flocks. They exhibit strong social bonds and engage in communal roosting.

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Egyptian geese are native to subSaharan Africa and the Nile Valley. However, they’ve also been introduced to other regions, including Europe and North America, where they have established feral populations.They prefer habitats near water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands but can also be found in agricultural areas and grasslands. Egyptian Geese are omnivorous, with a diet that includes grasses, seeds, leaves, and aquatic plants. They also eat insects, small fish, and other small aquatic animals. They are quite vocal, with a range of calls used for communication. Their calls include loud honking sounds, especially during mating displays or when alarmed. Egyptian Geese are known for their strong pair bonds. They often mate for life and are highly aggressive and territorial during the breeding season. They nest in a variety of locations, including tree cavities, cliffs, and on the ground. The female typically lays between 5-12 eggs, which both parents incubate. In the wild, Egyptian Geese can live up to 15 years.

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GOLDEN WEAVERS

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Male African Golden Weavers are known for their vibrant yellow plumage, which is especially bright during the breeding season. Females and non-breeding males have duller, more olive-colored feathers. These weavers are typically found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, marshes, riverbanks, & sometimes gardens and agricultural areas. They prefer areas with dense vegetation near water sources. The African Golden Weaver has a variety of calls, including a distinctive chattering song. Males often sing to attract females & defend their territory. They primarily feed on seeds, but they also consume insects and other small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season when they need extra protein for their chicks.

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These weavers are famous for their complex and skillfully woven nests. Males construct the nests from grass, reeds, and other plant materials. The nests are often suspended from tree branches or reeds near water. Their nests are strategically built to deter predators, often over water or in thorny bushes. Despite this, they are still vulnerable to snakes, birds of prey, and other nest predators. They are social birds that often nest in colonies. Multiple nests can be seen hanging from the same tree or reed bed, creating a bustling community of weaver activity. During the breeding season, males display their nests to attract females and perform very elaborate courtship displays, which include flapping their wings and singing to entice a mate to inspect and accept their nest. If a female approves of a male’s nest, she’ll line it with softer materials and lay her eggs inside. If she rejects the nest, the male may dismantle it and start over, trying to improve his construction skills to attract another mate.

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STARLINGS

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The African starlings are famous for their iridescent feathers that shimmer in various colors like blue, green, and purple, resulting from microscopic structures in the feathers rather than pigments. These structures interfere with light, causing the stunning colors. that refract light. African starlings inhabit a wide range of environments, from savannas and woodlands to urban areas. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in various habitats. In urban areas, African starlings have adapted to live alongside humans, often foraging in gardens, parks, and farms. They are known to be bold and curious around people. They can live up to 15 years, in the wild. These birds are known for their complex vocalizations. They can mimic sounds from their environment, including the calls of other bird species and even human-made noises. African starlings are intelligent birds capable of problem-solving and using tools. Their cognitive abilities are among the highest in the avian world.

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African starlings’ diet is varied and includes insects, fruits, and nectar. They are opportunistic feeders and can adapt their diet based on the availability of food sources. They play a crucial role in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds through their feeding habits. Starlings are highly social birds, often seen in flocks. They engage in cooperative breeding, where multiple individuals help raise the young, even if they are not the parents. They use their strong social bonds to protect against predators. When threatened, a flock of starlings will mob the predator, driving it away through coordinated attacks. Starlings usually nest in tree cavities or abandoned nests of other birds. They line their nests with soft materials like feathers, leaves, and grass. During the breeding season, males often perform courtship displays, including singing and showing off their plumage to attract females.

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LILAC-BREASTED

ROLLERS

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The Lilac-breasted Roller is one of Africa’s most colorful and striking birds and is the national bird of both Kenya and Botswana, symbolizing the vibrant wildlife of these countries. It is renowned for its breathtaking plumage, which includes shades of lilac, blue, green, and turquoise. Its breast is a vivid lilac color, which gives the bird its name. The wings display a striking combination of blue and green, and the bird’s tail feathers are elongated with a beautiful azure hue. The Lilac-breasted Rollers have a distinctive, harsh, grating call that can be heard during flight or when perched. Their vocalizations are used for communication between mates and to signal threats. These birds are found across sub-Saharan Africa, from Ethiopia and Somalia in the east to South Africa. They prefer open savannas, woodlands, and grasslands with scattered trees and bushes.They feed mainly on insects, such as beetles, grasshoppers, and crickets. They also eat small reptiles, rodents, and occasionally other small birds. They hunt from a perch, swooping down to catch prey on the ground, and then often returning to the same perch to eat.

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During the breeding season, males perform impressive aerial displays to attract females. These displays include loops, rolls, and steep dives, often accompanied by loud calls.The courtship display is not only a way to attract a mate but also to establish and defend their territory. Lilac-breasted Rollers usually nest in natural tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes. They do not build their own nests but will line the cavity with grass and feathers. The female typically lays 2-4 eggs, which both parents help incubate and care for once hatched. Both parents are involved in raising their chicks and defending their territory. These birds are monogamous and often form longterm pair bonds. In the wild, they can live up to 10 years.

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BEE-EATERS

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African bee-eaters are a colorful and fascinating group of birds known for their striking plumage and agile flight. As their name suggests, bee-eaters primarily feed on bees & other flying insects like wasps, dragonflies, and butterflies. They are often found near water, where insect activity is high. They catch their prey in mid-air with impressive aerial acrobatics & remove the stinger by repeatedly hitting the insect against a hard surface. Beeeaters are highly social birds, often seen in flocks. They engage in cooperative breeding, where members of a group help raise each other’s young. Bee-eaters have a variety of calls, which include melodious, trilling, and chirping sounds. These calls are used for communication within the flock and during courtship displays. Many species of African bee-eaters are migratory, For example, the European Bee-eater migrates from Europe to sub-Saharan Africa for the winter.

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OXPECKERS

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Oxpeckers are fascinating birds that are known for their unique symbiotic relationship with large mammals in Africa, like buffalo, giraffes, rhinos, and zebras. They feed on ticks, dead skin, and other parasites found on these animals. While they help control parasite loads on their hosts, they also consume earwax, blood, and mucus, making the relationship somewhat parasitic as well. They have specially adapted feet that allow them to cling to the hides of large mammals. They use their sharp claws & beaks to remove ticks & other parasites. By removing parasites, oxpeckers help improve the health of their hosts. This can increase the host animals’ survival and reproductive success. They also feed on blood from wounds, which can keep the wound open longer and lead to more feeding opportunities, which can sometimes be detrimental to their hosts.Oxpeckers also serve as an early warning system for their host animals. They have keen eyesight and will alert their hosts to the presence of predators by making loud alarm calls.

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There are two species of oxpeckers: the Red-billed Oxpecker and the Yellow-billed Oxpecker. They are distinguished by their bill color. These birds are highly vocal and communicate with a variety of calls, including alarm calls, contact calls, and calls used during feeding. Oxpeckers are strong fliers and can easily move from one host to another. They often follow herds of animals and can be seen flying alongside them. Oxpeckers nest in tree cavities, which they line with hair plucked from their mammal hosts. They lay 2 to 4 eggs, and both parents share the responsibilities of incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.

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GUINEAFOWLS

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HARTLAUB’S

BUSTARD

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AFRICAN RED-EYED

BULBUL

PHAINO

OPEPLA

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SOUTHERN YELLOW-BILLED

HORNBILL

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SOUTHERN GROUND

HORNBILL

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SPOONBILL

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GREY HERON

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GREY GO-AWAY

BIRD

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KINGFISHER

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SACRED IBIS

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YELLOW-BILLED

STORK

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KORI BUSTARD

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SADDLE-BILLED

STORK

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WHITE EGRET

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DUNG

BEETLES

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In Africa, you can find all three types of dung beetle behavior: rollers, who roll dung into balls and move it; tunnelers, who bury dung where they find it; and dwellers, who live inside the dung. They play a critical role in cleaning up animal waste. They quickly find and process dung, preventing the spread of parasites and diseases. African dung beetles are incredibly strong. Certain species can move dung balls that are more than 50 times their own body weight. This strength is essential for transporting dung balls to safe locations. By burying dung, African dung beetles help to recycle nutrients back into the soil, improving soil fertility and promoting plant growth, benefiting the entire ecosystem. The size of dung balls varies among species. Some create small balls for their own consumption, while others make larger ones to lay their eggs inside. They prepare dung balls meticulously, ensuring they contain enough nutrients for the developing larvae. African dung beetles can bury a pile of elephant dung the size of a basketball in less than 24 hours, showcasing their efficiency and speed.

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SNAKES

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Africa is home to a diverse array of snake species, ranging from harmless colubrids to some of the world’s deadliest vipers and elapids. The good news is that when you are driving around in a car, there is not much to worry about when it comes to snakes. It is when you are on foot enjoying your bush meal or partaking in a walking safari that you need to be on the lookout for them. Luckily during our multiple trips to Africa, we have only seen one snake and from a safe distance, the green mamba. The green mamba’s vibrant green color helps it camouflage in the treetops where it lives, making it a master of disguise in its leafy environment. Like all mambas, the Green Mamba’s venom is highly potent and primarily neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system. However, they are generally shy and will avoid confrontation if possible. They primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and occasionally other reptiles. They are known for their ability to strike and capture prey with precision.

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LIZARDS

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Africa is home to a rich diversity of lizard species, such as geckos, agamas, chameleons, skinks, monitor lizards, and more. Each species adapted to thrive in the continent’s diverse environments, from arid deserts to lush rainforests. These lizards exhibit an incredible variety of behaviors, physical traits, and ecological roles. The largest African lizard is the Nile monitor that can grow to 6.5-8.2 ft (2-2.5 m) in length. Cape dwarf gecko are among the smallest lizard species in Africa, with adults typically reaching lengths of only 1.2-1.6 in (3-4 cm). Lizards play important roles in African ecosystems. They are key predators of insects and other invertebrates, helping to control their populations. They also serve as a great and consistent source of food for larger predators.

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The most popular African lizard is the Agama, known for their vibrant colors and interesting behaviors. They are known for their striking coloration, particularly during the breeding season. Hence their coloration, they are called the “Spiderman Lizard” by the locals. They can display bright hues of blue, red, and yellow to attract females and ward off rivals. Agamas exhibit a social hierarchy, with dominant males often showing the most vivid colors and occupying the best basking and breeding spots. Subordinate males tend to have duller colors. They use body language to communicate. Head-bobbing is a common behavior, used to establish dominance, attract mates, and signal territory boundaries. Agama lizards are primarily insectivorous, feeding on ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. However, they also eat plant material & can occasionally consume smaller lizards.

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DOLPHINS

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Several dolphin species can be found in the waters off East Africa, including the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, the spinner dolphin, the humpback dolphin, and the common dolphins. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal waters, bays, estuaries, and sometimes even further offshore in the open ocean. They are often seen swimming near coral reefs, where they can find food. The waters around the island of Zanzibar (Tanzania) are home to several dolphin species, including the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin and the humpback dolphin. You can take boat tours from places like Kizimkazi to see dolphins swimming and playing in the ocean. Mombasa, Kenya, is another great spot for dolphin watching in East Africa. Boat tours depart from Mombasa and take you out into the Indian Ocean to see dolphins in their natural habitat.

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Dolphins are known for their high levels of intelligence, comparable to that of apes and certain other non-human primates. They have large brains relative to their body size and are capable of complex problem-solving, social interaction, and even learning new behaviors. They’re also known for their playful and social behavior. They swim in groups, or pods, and are known to engage in acrobatic displays, such as leaping out of the water and riding the bow waves of boats. They are carnivorous and feed on a variety of fish, squid, and crustaceans. They are known to work together to herd schools of fish into tight groups, making it easier for them to catch their prey. Dolphins are highly communicative animals, using a combination of clicks, whistles, and body language to communicate with each other. They have signature whistles that are thought to function like names, allowing individuals to recognize each other. Some species, such as the bottlenose dolphin, can live up to 40-50 years in the wild.

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TORTOISES

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Land turtles, also known as tortoises, have several adaptations that help them survive in arid environments. They have thick, sturdy legs for walking long distances and digging burrows, and their shells help protect them from predators and the sun. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including savannas, grasslands, deserts, and forests. They are often found in areas with sandy soil where they can dig burrows, that can be several meters long and deep, to escape the heat and avoid predators. The Aldabra giant tortoise, found on the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles, is one of the largest species of tortoise in the world. They can weigh up to 550 lbs (250 kg) and live for over 100 years.

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Land turtles are herbivores, feeding mainly on grasses, leaves, fruits, and flowers. Their strong jaws and beaklike mouths are adapted for tearing and chewing tough plant material. Land turtles have interesting mating behaviors. Male tortoises often engage in aggressive displays, including head bobbing and ramming, to establish dominance and win the right to mate with females. Female land turtles lay their eggs in nests dug in the ground. The eggs are then left to incubate, and the hatchlings must fend for themselves from birth.Land turtles are known for their long lifespans. Some species can live for over 100 years. The oldest known tortoise, Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise, is estimated to be over 191 years old as of 2024, making him the oldest known living land animal.

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NOT FOR THE

FAINT OF HEART

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For those who witness it, Africa’s wildlife offers an unfiltered glimpse into the raw and often brutal reality of nature. It’s a place where life & death are intertwined in a dance as old as time itself, where every creature, from the smallest insect to the largest mammal, plays a vital role in the ecological balance. Africa’s wilderness is not for the faint of heart. It challenges visitors to confront the primal aspects of life, to appreciate the beauty & brutality that coexist in the natural world. It is a reminder that in the wild, survival is the ultimate goal, and the stakes are always high. It is simply about the survival of the fittest and the harmony of nature. For those who venture into Africa’s untamed landscapes, the experience is unforgettable. It leaves an indelible mark, a profound respect for the resilience of life and the relentless, awe-inspiring force of nature.

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Traveling through the wild expanses of Africa, one is often struck by the sight of skulls and bones scattered across the landscape. These remnants of once-living creatures serve as powerful symbols of the circle of life, underscoring the raw & relentless rhythms of nature. In the vast savannas, dense forests, and arid deserts, bones tell the stories of survival and death. The sun-bleached skull of a buffalo, the fragmented remains of a zebra, or the bones of a gazelle hanging from a tree all paint a vivid picture of the life-and-death struggles that define the African wilderness. Each set of remains is a testament to the ceaseless cycle of predator and prey, growth and decay. These remnants are a profound reminder of nature’s unending cycle. They tell a story of survival, adaptation, and the relentless drive of life to persevere. In the presence of these skeletal remains, one cannot help but feel a deep connection to the timeless and universal rhythms of the natural world.

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PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

THE ART& CRAFT

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Wildlife photography is one of the most challenging yet rewarding genres of photography. Capturing the beauty and raw power of nature requires not just technical skill, but also a deep understanding of animal behavior, patience, and a willingness to endure harsh conditions. For professional photographers, mastering wildlife photography can lead to stunning images that tell powerful stories and evoke strong emotions. This comprehensive guide will delve into the essential aspects of wildlife photography, from equipment and techniques to ethical considerations and field tips.

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EQUIPMENT:

THE TOOLS of THE TRADE Cameras For wildlife photography, the choice of camera can significantly impact the quality of your images. Professionals typically opt for DSLRs or mirrorless cameras due to their superior image quality, fast autofocus, & versatility. Full-Frame Cameras Offer excellent low-light performance and dynamic range. Models like the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III, Nikon D850, and Sony A7R IV are popular among professionals. Crop Sensor Cameras Provide extra reach with telephoto lenses due to the crop factor, which can be advantageous for capturing distant wildlife. Examples include the Canon EOS 90D and Nikon D500.

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Lenses The right lens is crucial for wildlife photography. Telephoto lenses are indispensable, allowing photographers to capture detailed shots of animals from a safe distance. Prime Lenses Fixed focal lengths like 300mm, 400mm, or 600mm offer superior sharpness and wide apertures, ideal for low-light conditions. Zoom Lenses Versatile options like the 100-400mm, 200500mm, or 150-600mm provide flexibility to frame shots dynamically.

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Accessories Tripods & Supports Stability is key in wildlife photography, especially with long lenses. A sturdy tripod with a gimbal head allows for smooth panning and tilting while tracking moving subjects. Brands like Gitzo, Manfrotto, and Really Right Stuff offer reliable options. Teleconverters Extend the reach of your lenses, though with a slight loss of light and potential impact on image quality. Remote Shutter Releases Minimize camera shake during long exposures. Lens Hoods Reduce lens flare & protect the lens from elements. Weather Protection Rain covers and protective gear for your camera and lens.

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TECHNNIQUES:

CAPTURING THE PERFECT SHOT

Understanding Animal Behavior Knowledge of animal behavior is essential for anticipating movements & capturing decisive moments. Study the species you intend to photograph, learn their habits, and understand their habitats Timing Many animals are most active during dawn and dusk, known as the “golden hours” for photography due to the soft, diffused light. Patience Wildlife photography often requires long hours of waiting. Be prepared to spend extended periods observing and waiting for the perfect shot.

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Composition Strong composition can turn a good photograph into a great one. Consider the following principles: Rule of Thirds Place the subject off-center to create a more balanced & engaging image. Leading Lines Use natural elements like branches or paths to guide the viewer’s eye towards the subject. Framing Frame the subject with natural elements such as foliage or rocks to add depth & context. Learn more about compositions and techniques to elevate your photography skills by reviewing the Composotion Tips in our London Edition, here.

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Focus & Exposure Achieving sharp focus and proper exposure are critical in wildlife photography. Autofocus Modes Continuous autofocus (AI Servo/AF-C) is essential for tracking moving subjects. Use single-point autofocus for precision. Shutter Speed Use fast shutter speeds to freeze action. A minimum of 1/1000th of a second is recommended for moving animals. Aperture Wide apertures (f/2.8 to f/5.6) create a shallow depth of field, isolating the subject from the background. ISO Adjust ISO to maintain appropriate shutter speeds and apertures. Modern cameras handle high ISO settings well, but aim to keep it as low as possible to reduce noise.

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Ethical Considerations Ethics play a crucial role in wildlife photography. Respect for the animals and their habitats should always come first. Do No Harm Avoid disturbing animals or altering their behavior. Maintain a safe distance, and use longer lenses to minimize intrusion. Habitat Preservation Be mindful of the environment. Stick to designated paths and avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing nests. Ethical Practices Refrain from baiting or feeding wildlife to attract them for a shot. Such practices can harm them and disrupt natural behaviors. Respect Privacy Some locations and species may be off-limits to protect endangered animals. Always adhere to local regulations and guidelines.

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FIELD TIPS:

PRACTICAL ADVICE for SUCCESS Planning & Preparation Successful wildlife photography often hinges on meticulous planning and preparation. Research Study maps, read reports, and talk to local guides to identify prime locations and best times for wildlife activity. Gear Check Ensure all equipment is in good working order, batteries are charged, and memory cards are formatted and ready. Clothing Dress in layers and wear neutral colors to blend into the environment. Use moisture-wicking fabrics and sturdy footwear.

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In the Field Once in the field, adaptability & quick thinking are essential. Blending In Use blinds or hides to stay concealed. Approach animals quietly and from downwind to avoid detection. Silent Mode If your camera has a silent shooting mode, use it to reduce noise and avoid startling wildlife. Backup Plans Wildlife is unpredictable. Have alternative plans for different weather conditions or in case the animals are not cooperating.

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BEFORE

color or BNW?

AFTER

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Post-Processing Post-processing is a vital part of wildlife photography, enhancing the final image while staying true to the natural scene. Software Use professional editing software like Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom for adjustments. Basic Edits Focus on cropping, exposure adjustments, color correction, and sharpening. Ethical Editing Avoid excessive manipulation that misrepresents the scene or the animal’s behavior. Aim for authenticity and integrity in your images.

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Building a Portfolio Creating a compelling portfolio is crucial for professional wildlife photographers. It showcases your best work and defines your style. Variety Include a mix of wide-angle habitat shots, action sequences, portraits, and behavior-focused images. Storytelling Aim for images that tell a story or evoke an emotional response. Consistency Ensure a consistent quality and style throughout your portfolio. This helps in establishing your unique voice as a photographer.

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Marketing & Monetizing Your Work Professional wildlife photographers often look for ways to monetize their work & reach a wider audience. Social Media Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter are excellent for sharing your work & building a following. Website A professional website acts as a portfolio, a blog, and a shopfront for selling prints or licensing images. Workshops & Tours Offer photography workshops and guided tours to share your expertise and generate additional income. Publications Submit your work to magazines, journals, and online publications. Building relationships with editors & agencies lead to regular assignments. Stock Photography Consider selling your images through stock photography websites. Ensure you understand licensing terms & retain control over your work.

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Continuing Education & Inspiration Wildlife photography is an ever-evolving field. Continuing education and seeking inspiration are vital for growth. Workshops & Courses Attend advanced workshops and courses to hone your skills & learn new techniques. Networking Join photography clubs, online forums, & attend wildlife photography conferences to connect with peers and mentors. Study the Masters Analyze the work of renowned wildlife photographers to understand different styles and approaches. Documentaries, books, and exhibitions are great sources of inspiration.

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Wildlife photography is a demanding yet profoundly rewarding pursuit. For professionals, it requires a blend of technical expertise, deep respect for nature, and a passion for storytelling. By mastering the necessary skills, investing in the right equipment, and adhering to ethical practices, photographers can capture stunning images that celebrate the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Whether you are capturing the elusive leopard, the majestic eagle, or the playful otter, each photograph has the potential to inspire, educate, and evoke a deep appreciation for wildlife & conservation.

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Artistic Wildlife Photography on Safari: Techniques & Ideas for Fine Art Images East Africa, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, offers an exceptional canvas for photographers. While capturing this region’s raw beauty can lead to stunning images, creating fine art wildlife photography requires a unique approach and artistic vision. This detailed guide explores various techniques and ideas to elevate your wildlife photography from standard captures to artistic masterpieces, focusing on the distinct elements of East Africa’s rich natural heritage.

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THE ART of SILHOUETTES Silhouettes can transform ordinary wildlife photos into dramatic, evocative pieces of art. Tanzania’s expansive horizons and vibrant sunsets provide perfect conditions for creating stunning silhouette images.

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Techniques for Creating Silhouettes Shoot During Golden Hours The best time for silhouette photography is during sunrise or sunset when the sun is low in the sky. The warm light enhances the outline of the subject against the glowing sky. Position the Subject Against the Light Ensure the animal is between you and the light source. This backlighting creates a dark outline against the brighter background. Manual Exposure Adjustments To achieve a perfect silhouette, expose for the brightest part of the sky. This will render the subject in shadow, creating a striking contrast. Use spot metering to expose for the sky, ensuring the background is bright enough to highlight the silhouette. Focus on Shape & Form Choose animals with distinctive shapes, such as giraffes, elephants, or birds in flight. Their recognizable outlines add to the visual impact. Pay attention to the posture and positioning of the animal to maximize the dramatic effect. Use Wide-Angle Lenses Capture the broad landscape along with the silhouette to emphasize the environment and add context to your image. A wide-angle perspective can also include interesting elements like trees or mountains, adding depth to the composition.

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Ideas for Silhouette Shots Sunsets Position yourself on a hill or near water bodies to capture animals like elephants or giraffes against the fiery sky. The flat plains of the Serengeti and the spotty savannahs of Maasai Mara provide an unobstructed view of the horizon, ideal for silhouette photography. Baobab Trees in Tarangire Use iconic baobab trees in Tarangire National Park to frame your silhouette shots, creating a unique blend of wildlife and landscape. Birds in Flight Capture the silhouettes of birds like flamingos or eagles soaring across the colorful horizon. The Great Rift Valley and lakes such as Lake Manyara are excellent spots for bird photography at sunrise or sunset.

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CLOSE-UPS: CAPTURING THE SOUL of WILDLIFE

Close-up photography allows you to reveal intricate details & expressions, turning your images into intimate portraits that resonate with viewers on a deeper level.

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Techniques for Close-Ups Long Telephoto Lenses Use lenses with focal lengths of 400mm or more to get close without disturbing the animals. This ensures sharp details and a shallow depth of field to isolate the subject. Canon’s EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM and Nikon’s AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED VR are top choices for wildlife close-ups. Focus on Eyes & Expressions The eyes are the soul of a portrait. Focus on the animal’s eyes to capture their emotions and personality. Use single-point autofocus for precise control over the focus point. Patience & Stealth Approach slowly and quietly. Be patient and wait for the right moment when the animal is calm and focused. Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend into the environment and avoid sudden movements. Use Natural Light Soft, diffused light, such as during overcast days or in the shade, enhances the details without harsh shadows. Early morning & late afternoon light is often the most flattering for close-ups. Macro Lenses for Small Creatures For smaller wildlife, like insects or reptiles, use macro lenses to capture their intricate details up close. Lenses such as the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM and Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED are both excellent choices.

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Ideas for Close-Up Shots Big Cats Capture the intense gaze of a lion or the sleek fur patterns of a leopard in the Serengeti. The Ndutu region is a prime spot for close encounters with big cats. Birds Focus on the colorful plumage and sharp eyes of birds in the Maasai Mara The variety of species and their vibrant feathers provide endless opportunities for detailed shots. Reptiles Get close to chameleons or snakes in the lush regions of the Udzungwa Mountains. The unique textures & patterns of reptiles make for fascinating close-up subjects. Primates In Gombe Stream National Park, photograph chimpanzees in their natural habitat, focusing on their expressive faces and interactions.

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BEHIND THE BUSH:

CREATING MYSTERY& DEPTH Photographing wildlife partially obscured by foliage can add an element of mystery and depth to your images. This technique suggests the animal’s presence while inviting viewers to look closer & imagine the hidden details.

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Techniques for Behind the Bush Shots Use Natural Frames Position yourself so that branches, leaves, or tall grass partially obscure the subject. This creates a sense of peeking into the animal’s secret world. Use the foliage to create a frame within the frame, guiding the viewer’s eye to the subject. Play with Depth of Field Use a wide aperture to blur the foreground foliage while keeping the subject in sharp focus. This creates a dreamy, layered effect. Lenses with wide apertures like f/2.8 or f/4 are ideal for this technique. Contrast & Color Ensure the subject stands out against the natural frame. The contrasting colors of the animal and the vegetation can enhance the visual impact. Adjust your white balance settings to match the lighting conditions and bring out the natural colors. Manual Focus When foliage is in the way, use manual focus to ensure the camera locks onto the animal and not the obstructing elements. This is especially useful in dense vegetation where autofocus might struggle. Patience Wait for the right moment when the animal peeks out from behind the foliage, adding a touch of mystery and surprise to the image. Spend time observing the animal’s behavior to anticipate the perfect shot.

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Ideas for Behind the Bush Shots Cheetahs in the Grasslands Capture cheetahs partially hidden in the tall grass of the Serengeti, creating a sense of their elusive nature. The central Serengeti is known for its cheetah population. Elephants in the Forest Photograph elephants in Tarangire National Park, where trees and bushes provide natural frames. The dense vegetation and baobab trees create a beautiful backdrop. Primates in the Trees Capture the inquisitive faces of primates like colobus monkeys peeking through the dense canopy in Gombe Stream National Park. The lush forest provides plenty of opportunities for behind-the-bush shots.

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COMBINING TECHNIQUES

ARTISTIC MASTERPIECES

for

The true art of wildlife photography lies in combining these techniques to create unique, captivating images. Here are some ways to merge the different styles. Silhouetted Close-Ups Capture close-up silhouettes of animals against the sunset, focusing on their profiles and distinctive features. This technique combines the intimacy of close-ups with the dramatic effect of silhouettes. Mystical Silhouettes Use the behind-the-bush technique to create silhouettes with elements of foliage framing the subject, adding layers of depth & intrigue. This adds a sense of mystery to the image. Close-Ups with Natural Frames Combine close-ups with the behind-the-bush technique, focusing on the animal’s face while leaves or branches add a sense of mystery. This technique highlights the details of the animal while providing context & depth.

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BEYOND THE BASICS: ADVANCED TIPS for FINE ART WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

Mastering Light & Shadows Understanding how to manipulate light and shadows can greatly enhance the artistic quality of your wildlife photos. Golden Hour Magic The soft, warm light during the golden hour can transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary images. Plan your shoots around these times to take advantage of the natural light. High Key & Low Key Techniques High key photography involves using bright lighting to create an image with minimal shadows, often conveying a sense of lightness and purity. Low key photography, on the other hand, uses darker tones and deep shadows to create dramatic, moody images. Experiment with these techniques to add variety to your portfolio. Rim Lighting Capture animals with the light coming from behind them, creating a halo or rim of light around their bodies. This technique can add a magical, ethereal quality to your images, especially when photographing animals with fur or feathers.

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Stor ytelling Through Sequences Creating a series of images that tell a story can add depth and interest to your work. Behavioral Sequences Document animal behaviors such as hunting, mating rituals, or social interactions. These sequences provide a narrative that engages viewers and offers insight into the animal’s life. Life Cycles Capture different stages of an animal’s life cycle, from birth to adulthood. Documenting these stages can create a powerful series that highlights the growth and challenges faced by wildlife. Habitat Interactions Showcase how animals interact with their environment. This could include an elephant using its trunk to break branches, a bird building a nest, or a predator stalking its prey. These images provide context and enhance the story of the animal’s daily life.

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ADVANCED TECHNIQUES

for

FINE ART WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

Infrared Photography Infrared photography can produce surreal and otherworldly images that offer a unique perspective on wildlife. Specialized Equipment Use an infrared-converted camera or an infrared filter on your lens. Cameras like the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV can be converted for infrared use. Infrared Light Sensitivity Infrared light can penetrate through foliage, creating stark contrasts and revealing details not visible in regular light. This can be especially striking in dense forests or grasslands. Post-Processing Infrared images often require significant postprocessing to achieve the desired effect. Use software like Adobe Photoshop to adjust the white balance, contrast, and tones to bring out the unique characteristics of infrared light.

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Slow Shutter Speeds Using slow shutter speeds can add a sense of motion and dynamism to your images. Motion Blur: Capture animals in motion, such as birds in flight or herds running, to create a sense of movement. Experiment with shutter speeds around 1/30th of a second or slower. Pannin Track the animal’s movement with your camera while using a slow shutter speed. This technique blurs the background while keeping the subject relatively sharp, emphasizing the motion. Stabilization Use a tripod or monopod to stabilize your camera during long exposures. This ensures that only the moving elements are blurred, while the rest of the image remains sharp.

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Creative Compositions Push the boundaries of traditional composition rules to create unique and engaging images. Negative Space Use large areas of empty space to draw attention to the subject and create a minimalist, contemplative image. Unusual Angles Experiment with shooting from low angles, high angles, or directly above the subject to create unconventional perspectives. This can make familiar animals look new and interesting. Reflections Incorporate reflections in water to add symmetry and depth to your images. Reflections can double the visual interest and create a sense of balance.

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Building A Fine Art Portfolio A fine art portfolio should showcase your best work and demonstrate your unique style and vision. Curate Your Best Images Select images that are technically excellent and emotionally compelling. Each image should tell a story or evoke a strong emotional response. Cohesive Style Ensure that your portfolio has a cohesive style. This could be achieved through consistent editing techniques, subject matter, or compositional approaches. Diverse Subjects While maintaining a cohesive style, include a variety of subjects to show your versatility. This could range from majestic big cats to delicate insects, all captured with an artistic eye. Prints & Presentation Consider producing high-quality prints of your best images. Fine art photography is often appreciated more when viewed as physical prints. Use archival-quality paper & ink to ensure longevity and richness of color.

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Marketing & Monetizing Fine Art Wildlife Photography Turning your passion into a profitable venture requires strategic marketing & leveraging multiple revenue streams. Social Media Presence Build a strong social media presence on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Share your work regularly, engage with your audience, and use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience. Professional Website Create a professional website to showcase your portfolio, offer prints for sale, and provide information about workshops and tours. Ensure your website is visually appealing, easy to navigate, and optimized for search engines. Exhibitions & Galleries Participate in exhibitions & collaborate with ar galleries

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to display and sell your work. This not only provides a platform for selling your prints but also helps in building your reputation as a fine art photographer. Workshops & Tours Offer photography workshops and guided tours in Tanzania. Share your knowledge and experience with aspiring photographers, and generate additional income through these activities. Publications & Competitions Submit your work to wildlife photography competitions and publications. Winning awards or being featured in prominent magazines can significantly boost your credibility and visibility. Stock Photography Sell your images through stock photography websites. Ensure you understand the licensing terms and retain control over the use of your images.

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Ethical Considerations in Fine Art Wildlife Photography Maintaining ethical standards is paramount in wildlife photography. Respect for animals and their habitats should always come first. Minimize Disturbance Avoid disturbing animals or altering their natural behavior. Use long lenses to maintain a safe distance, and be patient to capture natural moments. Leave No Trace Follow the principles of “leave no trace” to preserve the environment. Avoid trampling vegetation, disturbing nests, or leaving any waste behind. Respect Local Regulations Adhere to local guidelines and regulations regarding wildlife photography. Some areas may have restrictions to protect endangered species or fragile ecosystems. Educate & Advocate Use your platform to educate others about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting their natural habitats. Advocate for ethical practices in wildlife photography and responsible tourism.

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Artistic wildlife photography on safri is about conveying the spirit and essence of the wild. By mastering advanced techniques like silhouettes, close-ups, behind-the-bush shots, and experimenting with innovative approaches like infrared photography and slow shutter speeds, you can elevate your photography to fine art. Each photograph becomes a work of art, telling a story & evoking emotions that resonate with viewers. Embrace the challenges and unpredictability of wildlife photography, and let your creativity flourish. With patience, practice, and a keen eye for detail, you can create stunning, artistic images that stand out in the world of professional wildlife photography. As you explore the breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania, remember that each click of the shutter is an opportunity to capture the profound beauty of the natural world.

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OUR

STORY

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ART TRAVEL ,

& DOING OUR PART

Art & travel are inseparable companions in our journey as fine art photographers. Traveling to distant lands, exploring untouched landscapes, and capturing the essence of diverse cultures shapes our artistry. With each photograph, we don’t just freeze a moment in time, but translate the unseen emotions & unspoken stories that resonate with humanity. As artists, we believe in doing our part to preserve and respect the cultures and environments we photograph & travel to. Using art as a platform, we strive to highlight the beauty of our world, while also advocating for its protection and nurturing. Our cameras are not just tools, but an extension of ourselves in a unique way, a bridge that connects us - and you, the viewer - to the world through the universal language of art. We wanted everyone to experience the world through our lenses. So, we have created a few things to make exactly that happen.

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POINT D’VUE FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY

Initially, we started our photography project as a way to connect everyone during the 2020 pandemic, when the freedom we used to have has been modified and the new “normal” was unfamiliar and different. We wanted to create something that would bring some smiles, brighten the new (& then gruesome) reality, and unite the people across the globe. Today, it’s evolved into Point D’Vue Fine Art Photography Gallery & Art Store, a place where we collect our favorite moments from our point of view. Each and every piece has a story behind it. Some of our most loved captures are presented in Fine Art as well as Limited Edition collections. All are created with a thought of using the power of art to make you think, feel and/ or transport you to a place of your dreams. You can take a look and make any of the art pieces yours here. You can also order any of the images from the catalogue at the end of this publication (page 998-1014) by simply filling out this form.

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TRAVEL GROUP I’ve traveled the globe for the last 20+ years. My life & career have taken me all over the world. Rise of technology added a new dimension to travel, initially making it easier to find & book places, discover new travel deals and join adventures at world’s top destinations. There are world-famous top places that everyone knows about. The more I traveled, the more I wished I could single out the hidden gems of destinations and share with people places that were more fun than one can imagine, places that touched me to the deepest corners of my heart.

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I have also learned that the quality of the adventure and the right type of experience is everything. Whether you love the trip or hate the destination is vastly defined by how it went. Origins & Destinations’ Packages & Experiences are created to be the one that will live in your heart forever. It will be something that you will never forget. Wherever you travel to will become your second home. We have experienced that firsthand. You can even experience what it is like to be a NatGeo photographer with Origins & Destinations Photo Journey Packages led by our professionals, who will help you hone down your skills while photographing an ever-changing tableau of wildlife, landscapes, streets or anywhere your imagination takes you. You will end the trip with your favorite shot printed on a museum archival canvas, a memory that will take an honorary place in your favorite room. It can’t be beat. You can also order any of the images from the catalogue at the end of this publication (page 998-1014) by simply filling out this form.

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THE

LION FOUNDATION

A charitable cause which focuses on preserving the ecosystem balance between nature and people in Tanzania. We created this foundation in 2020, after learning about the challenges of the ecosystem, a common side effect of industrialization and urbanization, in an effort to help preserve the delicate balance. You can read more about the foundation here.

A portion of all sales from our fine art prints and travel packages supports this very important foundation. And last but definitely not least, our specials. We have joined with our favorite partners to create special offers exclusively for our subscribers. These offers are not available anywhere else. Please, enjoy and, as always, we are happy to hear from you whether you have a question, suggestion or a request. You can reach us here.

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LODGING

HANDPICKED SAFARI ACCOMMODATIONS

Embarking on a safari in Africa is an adventure of a lifetime, offering breathtaking encounters with wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures. However, the experience can be significantly influenced by the choice of lodging. Selecting reliable and reputable accommodations is crucial for several reasons, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enriching safari experience.

Safety is paramount when on safari, and reliable lodges prioritize the well-being of their guests. Ensuring that the accommodation adheres to safety standards provides peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy your safari experience.

Reliable lodges offer well-maintained facilities, comfortable beds, great showers, and amenities such as electricity, WiFi, hot water, laundry service, and quality food. These comforts are especially important in remote areas where such amenities might be scarce. Quality accommodations ensure that you can recharge and be ready for the next day’s adventures. Reputable lodges employ knowledgeable and experienced guides who enhance the safari experience with their expertise. These guides are familiar with the local wildlife, geography, and culture, providing insightful information and ensuring

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that you have safe and memorable encounters. The quality of guiding makes a significant difference in the enjoyment and depth of the safari experience.

Most reliable lodges in Africa are committed to conservation and sustainable tourism practices. They work to protect the environment, support local communities, and contribute to wildlife conservation efforts. By choosing such lodges, you will support initiatives that preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of Africa. They have strong ties to their local communities, supporting local businesses, and providing employment opportunities. They contribute to the economic development of the area and foster positive relationships with local residents. These lodges offer personalized services and tailored experiences, catering to the specific interests and needs of their guests. Whether it’s organizing private game drives, arranging special dietary requirements, or providing cultural tours, these lodges go the extra mile to ensure a customized and memorable safari. Each of these 6 hand-picked safari accommodations offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, & exceptional experiences. Whether you’re exploring the bustling city of Arusha, the vast plains of the Serengeti or Maasai Mara, or the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, these lodgings provide the perfect base for an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

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LEMALA Tarangire National Park Nestled within the heart of Tarangire National Park, Lemala offers an intimate and luxurious safari experience. The camp’s spacious tents are tastefully decorated with plush furnishings and en-suite bathrooms, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of wildlife viewing. Each tent has a private veranda with breathtaking views of the surrounding bush. The camp’s central lounge and dining area, adorned with African artifacts, is perfect for relaxing and sharing stories with fellow travelers. Lemala’s location offers excellent game viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of elephants, lions, and other wildlife right from the camp.

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ENTAMANU Ngorongoro National Park

Perched on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, Entamanu Ngorongoro by Nomad Tanzania offers unparalleled views and a deeply immersive experience. The camp’s luxury tents are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, featuring rustic yet elegant decor and eco-friendly amenities. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the crater from their private decks or the cozy lounge area. The camp’s close proximity to the crater floor allows for easy access to game drives, where you can witness the incredible diversity of wildlife in this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entamanu’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement further enhances the authenticity of the experience.

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KUBU KUBU Central Serengeti Kubu Kubu is a beautiful & luxurious tented camp located in the heart of the Central Serengeti, providing an ideal base for exploring one of the most iconic wildlife reserves in the world. The camp’s spacious tents are elegantly furnished, with large beds, en-suite bathrooms, & private decks offering stunning views of the savannah. Kubu Kubu’s main lodge features a lounge, dining area, and an infinity pool overlooking the plains, where guests can relax and watch the wildlife. The camp’s prime location ensures fantastic game viewing, especially during the Great Migration when millions of wildebeest and zebras pass through the area.

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TAASA Northern Serengeti

TAASA Lodge, situated in the remote Northern Serengeti, offers an exclusive and luxurious safari experience. The lodge’s luxurious tents are exquisitely appointed, featuring king-sized beds, spacious living areas, and private decks with sweeping views of the Serengeti. The main lodge includes a dining room, bar, lounge, and an infinity pool, all designed to offer maximum comfort and stunning vistas. TAASA’s unique location provides excellent opportunities for game drives, walking safaris, & cultural visits to local Maasai villages. Guests can also enjoy nighttime game drives, offering a chance to see the nocturnal wildlife of the Serengeti. You can learn more about TAASA lodge by reading the Sponsor section (p 51-93).

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RIVERTREES COUNTRY INN Arusha

Nestled on the outskirts of Arusha, Rivertrees Country Inn is a charming retreat set within lush gardens along the Usa River. The inn offers a range of accommodations, from cozy garden rooms to spacious river cottages, each tastefully decorated with a rustic elegance. Guests can enjoy farm-to-table dining at the inn’s restaurant, which serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Rivertrees’ serene setting is perfect for relaxing before or after a safari, with amenities including a swimming pool, yoga pavilion, and a tranquil riverside walking trail. Their warm hospitality and peaceful ambiance make it a delightful stop on any Tanzanian journey.

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SOPA LODGES Maasai Mara & Amboseli National Park

Sopa Lodges in Kenya offer a unique blend of luxury and authenticity, nestled in some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Each lodge is thoughtfully designed to reflect the rich cultural heritage & natural beauty of its surroundings, providing guests with an immersive safari experience. Spacious rooms and suites feature traditional African decor, modern amenities, and private verandas with breathtaking views of the wilderness. The lodges’ prime locations in iconic parks such as Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, & Amboseli ensure excellent game viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of the Big Five and other wildlife. Guests can unwind in the inviting lounges, savor delicious local & international cuisine in the dining areas, & relax by the pools while soaking in the serene ambiance. Sopa Lodges combine comfort, hospitality, and adventure, making them an ideal choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable Kenyan safari experience.

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KIDS

F O R

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WHAT EVERY KID SHOULD KNOW ABOUT

SAFARI

The word “safari” comes from the Swahili word “safiri,” which means “to travel.” Today, a safari means going on a trip to see and learn about wild animals in places like Africa. Safaris are special because you get to see animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes living freely in their natural habitats, just as they have for thousands of years. The idea of a safari started a long time ago with explorers and adventurers from Europe. In the 1800s, many traveled through Africa to discover new lands and study wildlife. They wrote books and shared their discoveries, making people around the world curious about Africa’s incredible animals. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, safaris became popular among wealthy people who wanted to hunt big game animals like lions, elephants, and rhinos, as a way to show bravery and adventure. Over time, people realized that hunting was harming animal populations and in the mid-1900s, the focus of safaris shifted from hunting to conservation and photography. Today, most safaris are about watching and protecting wildlife. People go on guided tours to take photos, learn about animals, and support conservation efforts. There are 4 types of Safari depending on where you are in Africa and what animals you are hoping to see: Game Drives, Walking Safaris, Boat Safaris, & Balloon Safaris. In this issue, we have focused on Game Drive Safaris in both Tanzania and Kenya, in east Africa (marked with on the map).

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FUN FACTS Are you ready to embark on an exciting safari adventure in Tanzania and Kenya through pictures and learn some amazing fun facts about the one-of-a-kind African wildlife? In this section, we will continue exploring facts about safari and learn more about some of the animals you can look for in Tanzania and Kenya. Buckle up and let’s go!

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GAME

DRIVES

These are the most common type of safari. You ride in a special vehicle with a guide who knows all about the animals and where to find them. Game drives usually happen early in the morning or late in the afternoon when animals are most active. Game drive vehicles are usually open-top or have large windows, so you can have a great view of the animals. They are also designed to handle rough terrain, like dirt roads and muddy paths. Some have a special seat in front of the hood, where the “spotter” sits, finding the wildlife for you. Game drives happen early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These are the best times to see animals because it’s cooler, and animals are more active. On a safari, it’s important to respect the animals and their space. You get to watch them from a distance without disturbing them, ensuring they continue to live freely and naturally. Make sure to bring a camera or binoculars!

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THE

SERENGETI “Serengeti” comes from the Maasai word “Siringet,” which means “endless plains.” The Serengeti Plains are located in Tanzania, with a small part extending into Kenya. The Serengeti National Park was established in 1951 to protect the area’s wildlife and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its natural beauty and ecological importance. The Serengeti has grassy plains, woodlands, kopjes (pronounced “ko-pees”, small and isolated rock hills or mounds that rise from the surrounding plains, as seen in the Lion King), and riverine forests. The plains seem to go on forever, giving you endless views of wildlife and beautiful scenery. The Serengeti is home to over 70 large mammal species (including the the Big Five) & around 500 bird species. It is a great place to see predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in action as they hunt for food. It is most famous for the Great Migration, one of the largest animal migrations in the world.

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MAASAI

MARA

Maasai Mara is a large game reserve in southwestern Kenya and is named after the Maasai people who live there and the Mara River that runs through it, which is essential for the animals in the Maasai Mara, providing water for drinking and habitats for many species. “Mara” means “spotted” in the Maasai language, describing the patchy landscape, made of rolling hills, vast grasslands, and scattered acacia trees. The landscape is breathtaking and perfect for spotting wildlife. Maasai Mara has one of the highest densities of lions in the world and many more animals & bird species. Similar to Serengeti, Maasai Mara is famous for the Great Migration of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.

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MAASAI PEOPLE The Maasai people are known for their rich cultural heritage, traditional way of life, and their connection to nature. They have managed to maintain their traditions while adapting to changes in the modern world. Their colorful clothing, jumping dances, and unique customs make them one of the most interesting and recognized tribes in Africa. They live in the East African countries of Tanzania and Kenya. They are traditionally nomadic herders, which means they move from place to place with their cattle. Cattle are very important to the Maasai. They provide milk, meat, and are a sign of wealth. The Maasai also drink cow blood as it is very nutritious and keeps them energized all day. The Maasai speak a language called Maa. Their name actually means “people who speak Maa”, indicating the importance of the language.

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MAASAI

VILLAGES

Maasai people live in small villages called bomas. Their houses are called enkangs. They are built by women using mud, sticks, grass, and cow dung. The Maasai are famous for their jumping dance called adumu. Young men compete to see who can jump the highest while keeping their bodies straight. Traditional Maasai warriors carry beautifully decorated and crafted spears, which they use for protection and hunting. The Maasai use natural herbs and plants for medicine. They have a lot of knowledge about the healing properties of plants in their environment. During your safari adventures, you should visit a Maasai village to see their brightly colored clothes, watch the warriors perform their high-jumping dance, and learn more about their cattle and traditional homes. It’s like stepping into a whole different world full of fascinating traditions and stories.

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MIGRATION The Great Migration is a huge, annual movement of animals across the plains of East Africa, covering 1,200 miles, mainly between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. Over 1.5 million wildebeest take part in the Great Migration along with more than 250,000 zebras and Thomson’s gazelles. The calving season in the Serengeti is crucial for the survival of the species. Around 500,000 wildebeest calves are born during a three-week period in February. They learn to run to keep up with the herd and avoid predators. The migrating animals are searching for fresh grass to eat. The rainy season in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara create lush pastures that the herds follow. One of the most dramatic parts of the migration is when the animals cross rivers like the Mara River, as the rivers are filled with hungry crocodiles waiting for a meal. It’s a dangerous but necessary part of the journey.

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CROSSING Thousands of animals gather at the riverbanks, waiting for the right moment to cross. Sometimes, there are so many that they seem to cover the land and water! It takes a lot of courage for the animals to jump into the water, as the rivers are home to large Nile crocodiles that wait for the migrating animals. These crocs can be over 20 feet long! River crossings are dangerous. Besides crocodiles, there are strong currents and steep riverbanks to navigate. Not all animals make it across safely, but those who do continue their journey to find fresh grass and water. Watching a river crossing is one of the most spectacular sights in nature and during safari. The splashing water, the sounds of hooves, and the sight of thousands of animals moving together is unforgettable.

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THE

BIG FIVE The Big Five are five of the most famous animals you can see on a safari in Africa. They are called the Big Five because they were considered the most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. Now, they are the stars of wildlife watching! The Big Five are made of lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos. The Big Five are not just important for their size or strength; they play a crucial role in their ecosystems. Lions help control herbivore populations, elephants shape the landscape by knocking down trees, rhinos maintain open grasslands, leopards keep prey species in check, and buffaloes impact plant growth through grazing. Seeing the Big Five on safari is a thrilling experience! Imagine riding in a safari jeep, watching lions lounging in the shade, elephants trumpeting in the distance, a rhino grazing quietly, a leopard lounging in a tree, and buffaloes grazing in a vast herd. Each of these animals has unique behaviors and characteristics that make them fascinating to watch.

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LAND

PREDATORS Africa is home to some of the most amazing and fierce predators in the world. A predator is an animal that hunts, kills, and eats other animals for food. The animals they hunt and eat are called prey. These animals are skilled hunters and play a crucial role in the balance of nature. They help control the populations of herbivores, ensuring that the vegetation does not get overgrazed. Predators also help keep the food chain in balance and contribute to the health of their habitat. Predators have special skills and adaptations that help them catch their prey. For example, Lions hunt in groups called prides, working together to catch large prey like zebras and buffaloes. Some predators, like leopards, use ambush tactics. They hide and wait for the perfect moment to pounce on their prey. Others, like cheetahs being the fastest land animal, use speed to chase down and catch their prey. Animals like African wild dogs hunt in packs, working together to catch their prey. Predators usually have excellent eyesight, strong muscles & powerful bodies to overpower their prey, and sharp claws and teeth to catch, kill, and eat their prey.

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HERBIVORES Africa is home to some of the coolest herbivores in the world. They primarily eat plants. This can include leaves, grass, flowers, fruits, seeds, and even tree bark. Herbivores play a crucial role in their ecosystems. They help control plant growth, spread seeds, and provide food for carnivores (meat-eaters). By eating plants, they also help recycle nutrients back into the soil, promoting healthy plant growth. Animals like zebras and cows are grazers. They eat grass and other low-lying plants throughout the day. Animals like giraffes and deer are browsers. They eat leaves, twigs, and fruits from trees and bushes. Herbivores usually have flat, broad teeth that are perfect for grinding and chewing tough plant material. Some have sharp incisors cutting leaves and stems. They have special stomachs and long intestines that help break down tough plant fibers.

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BIRDS Tanzania & Kenya are home to more than 1,100 of most amazing and colorful species of birds in the world, which play vital roles in their ecosystems. They help control insect populations, pollinate flowers, and spread seeds. Tanzania and Kenya are home to more than 1,100 speof most amazing and colorful species of birds in the world, which play vital roles in their ecosystems.They have a very varied diet. Birds like the hornbill and the bee-eater love to snack on insects. Some birds, such as the sunbird, feed on nectar and fruits. Birds of prey, like eagles and vultures, hunt for fish and small animals or scavenge for meat. Some birds, like scavengers, help clean up dead animals, which keeps the environment healthy. Scavenger birds, like vultures and Maribou Storks, are some of the most important creatures in Africa. They help keep the environment clean by eating dead animals and waste.

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THE

MONKEYS Tanzania & Kenya are home to some of the most fascinating and playful monkeys in the world such as, from Vervet Monkey, Blue Monkey, Colobus Monkey, Sykes’ Monkey and Baboon (known for their long, doglike snouts and large, sharp canine teeth.). They can be found in a variety of habitats, from the open savannas and dense rainforests. They help disperse seeds by eating fruits and then spreading the seeds through their droppings. This helps new plants grow. Monkeys also help control insect populations and serve as prey for larger predators, contributing to the balance of their habitats. Monkeys are social animals and live in groups called troops. Most are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Monkeys often feed on fruits, leaves, seeds, and insects. They spend a lot of time foraging for food, using their keen senses of smell and sight to locate food sources.

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REPTILES Tanzania and Kenya are home to a variety of fascinating reptiles, a fascinating group of animals that include snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodiles. They play important roles in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations, serving as prey for other animals, and helping disperse seeds. Some reptiles, like turtles, are also indicators of ecosystem health. Reptiles are cold-blooded, which means they rely on the environment to regulate their body temperature. They have scales covering their bodies, which help protect them and reduce water loss. Most reptiles lay eggs, although some, like certain snakes and lizards, give birth to live young. The largest reptile in Africa is the Nile crocodile, known for their large size (about 20 ft (6 m)) and powerful jaws. Africa is home to some of the most venomous snakes in the world, including the black mamba and green mamba. A tourist favorite however is the agama, also known as the spiderman lizard.

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BABIES In many African savannas, the rainy season is a time of plenty, with lots of food available. This is also when many animals give birth, so you’re more likely to see baby animals during and just after the rains. For animals like monkeys and warthogs, food availability plays a big role in when they give birth. If there is plenty of food around, you are more likely to see their babies. As we discovered earlier, animals like zebras & wildebeest, have specific times of the year when they migrate in search of food and water. If you visit during these times, you will see their babies. Others like elephants and lions can give birth at any time of the year. This means that you have a chance of seeing elephant calves and lion cubs no matter when you visit.

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NOW IMAGINE

YOURSELF... Watching thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the plains. Hear the thundering hooves, see the splashing water as they cross rivers, and witness the drama of the wild... Riding in a safari jeep & seeing the Big Five for the first time in flesh: watching lions lounging in the shade, elephants trumpeting in the distance, a rhino grazing quietly, a leopard lounging in a tree, and buffaloes grazing in a vast herd. Being on a safari, watching a herd of elephants grazing in the distance, a giraffe stretching its neck to reach the highest leaves, zebras galloping across the plains, and hippos lounging in a river. Seeing a flock of flamingos wading in a lake, an ostrich running across the savannah, or a lilac-breasted roller performing acrobatics in the sky, a Marabou Stork standing tall by a waterhole, or an African Fish Eagle swooping down to snatch a fish. Witnessing a troop of baboons foraging on the ground, a colobus monkey gracefully leaping between trees, or a vervet monkey curiously watching you from the branches. Being immersed in one of the best wildlife experiences in the world and creating unforgettable memories of a lifetime. Now imagine yourself on an African safari...

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Young safari enthusiasts, Here is your first challenge! Look carefully at the letters grid below filled with seemingly random letters. Search for 15 hidden words related to safari and the fun facts we just learned together about Tanzania and Kenya. The words can be vertical or horizontal, and they’re often overlapping. Good luck!

A L O T P Z C S K E O L C E R S R B I F R S X C S W I L D E B E E S T S N OM A D S U A KWN O A H P E Y F O R B F R I P H S G D P T S T RT K WHM A A S A I M A R A C D I OA D P L I R A D E L HMN R D P L GNW R MW I L D L I F E X D R J E E P M O C H KWN G U N D S E A T S R F S R S T X N I L TMR H I N OO C E Q I Y B T A N Z A N I A S L QH S P I S Q P Z B K E B Q V N H A T E VMO D R G S D U B T F E L E P H A NT P E N R O S T R I C H A P HO G Y B A B G A U L X A K V D O R S L K TQ E

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Young adventurers, Welcome to your second challenge! It is time to further test your knowledge about what you have learned about African safari and wildlife! Solve the clues below and fill in the crossword on the next page with the correct words.

ACROSS 1. What you call elephant babies 2. Lion, leopard, elephant, rhino & buffalo are members of the ___ ____ 3. What you call an animal that hunts, kills, and eats other animals 4. Isolated rock hills rising from the surrounding plains of the Serengeti 5. Monkeys with dog-like snouts and large, sharp canine teeth

DOWN 1. What you call a group of lions 2. Huge annual movement of animals across the plains of East Africa 3. The name of faouse Maasai jumping dance 4. What you call an animal that primarily eats plants 5. This is what Mara means in the Maa language

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2 4 1

2 1 3 5

4 5

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Young animal experts! Are you ready for your 3rd challenge! On the next spread, there is a picture from Tanzania’s Ngorongoro National Park with these 11 animals/birds in it. Some are just one and others are in bigger groups.

Make sure to zoom in on the picture as your are looking for thesm as most of them are very small compared to the large and the lucious background. Best of luck as you are making your way to your 4th and final challenge!

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#3 #1

In herds we graze on grassy p With horns that curve like rugged Strong and sturdy, we roam in What animal are we, with hides of blacks?

Swift as the wind, I dash with grace, Spots on my fur, speed in the chase. In Africa’s plains, I hunt my prey, What am I, who races through the day?

#2 A vast plain where wildebeests roam and run, Under the African sky, beneath the blazing sun. Home to great migrations, nature’s grand ballet, What is this place where wildlife holds sway?

With lenses I Helping you For birdwatc What tool

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plains, d chains. packs,

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#5 In the land where Maasai reside, Circular homes where communities abide. With sticks and mud, these structures stand strong, What are these dwellings where traditions belong?

bring things near and clear, u see what’s far, quite dear. ching or safaris, I’m a must, am I, that you can trust?

With a neck so long, I reach for the sky, Eating leaves from treetops, where birds fly high. Spots on my coat, I tower with pride, Who am I, in the savanna I stride?

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BEDTIME

STORIES EMILIA & LEON’S

SAFARI ADVENTURES

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CHAPTER I

ADVENTURE

TH E

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Emilia & Leon had always dreamed of going on a safari. They had poured over travel books, watched countless documentaries, and saved diligently for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Finally, the day arrived when they found themselves stepping off a small plane onto the sun-drenched savannah of the Serengeti in Tanzania. Their guide, a cheerful man named Joseph, greeted them with a warm smile. “Welcome to the Serengeti! Are you ready to see some amazing wildlife?” Emilia and Leon nodded eagerly. As they climbed into the open-top safari vehicle, the excitement bubbled over. “I can’t believe we’re actually here!” Emilia exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder. Joseph chuckled. “That’s the spirit! Now, let’s see what the incridible Serengeti has in store for us today.”

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Within minutes of their drive, they spotted their first animal—a majestic elephant grazing by a cluster of acacia trees. Emilia gasped in awe. “Look at how huge it is!” Joseph nodded. “That’s just the beginning. Keep your eyes peeled. The Serengeti is full of surprises.” Leon was busy snapping photos, trying to capture every moment. “This is incredible,” he said. “I never imagined the animals would be so close.” As they drove deeper into the savannah, the landscape revealed more of its treasures. Herds of zebras and wildebeest roamed the plains, their black and white stripes and shaggy coats creating a mesmerizing pattern against the golden grass. “Look at the way they move together,” Emilia said, her voice filled with amazement. Joseph explained, “These herds are part of the great migration, one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world. They travel hundreds of miles each year in search of fresh grazing lands.”

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Suddenly, Joseph slowed the vehicle and pointed ahead. “Look over there, by the rocks.” Emilia and Leon followed his gaze and saw a pride of lions lounging in the shade. The lionesses were grooming each other while the cubs played nearby, pouncing on each other and rolling in the dust. A massive male lion with a flowing mane lay nearby, surveying his domain. “Wow,” Leon whispered. “They’re so regal.” Joseph grinned. “Lions are fascinating creatures. Did you know that the females do most of the hunting while the males protect the pride?” Emilia leaned forward, her eyes fixed on the scene. “Can we get a little closer?” “Sure, but we need to be respectful of their space,” Joseph replied, maneuvering the vehicle carefully. As they drew nearer, the lions barely glanced their way, accustomed to the presence of safari vehicles. They spent nearly an hour watching the lions before moving on. The sun was beginning to dip in the sky, casting long shadows across the landscape. Joseph suggested they head to a nearby hill for a perfect view of the sunset.

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As they reached the top of the hill, Emilia and Leon were treated to a breathtaking panorama of the Serengeti. The sky was ablaze with hues of orange, pink, and purple, and the vast plains below seemed to stretch endlessly into the horizon. “This is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen,” Emilia said, her voice filled with awe. Leon put his arm around her shoulders. “I’m so glad we’re here together.” Joseph, standing a few feet away, smiled at the couple. “The Serengeti has a way of making you feel small and grand all at once, doesn’t it?” They watched the sunset in companionable silence, each lost in their thoughts. As the last rays of light faded, Joseph turned to them. “Let’s head back to camp. We have got a delicious dinner waiting for us.”

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Back at the cozy tented camp, they were greeted with warm towels and refreshing drinks. The camp staff had prepared a hearty meal of grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and traditional Tanzanian dishes. As they ate, they shared stories and laughter, recounting the day’s adventures. After dinner, they gathered around a campfire, the night filled with the sounds of the African wilderness—the distant roar of a lion, the chirping of crickets, and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. Joseph told tales of his experiences as a guide, from thrilling encounters with wildlife to humorous mishaps with previous guests. “One time, we had a guest who insisted on bringing a full set of china on the safari,” Joseph said with a chuckle. “Every meal, we had to set up a formal dining table in the middle of the bush. It was quite the sight!” Emilia laughed. “I can’t imagine lugging around fine china out here!” As the fire crackled and the stars twinkled overhead, they felt a deep sense of contentment. “I can’t believe we’re really here,” Emilia whispered to Leon as they prepared to retire to their tent. “Me neither,” Leon replied, squeezing her hand. “This is everything we dreamed of and more.” They fell asleep to the lullaby of the African night, their hearts full of excitement for the adventures that awaited them in the days to come. The Serengeti had already cast its spell, and they knew they were in for an unforgettable journey.

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CHAPTER II

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS

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The next morning, Emilia and Leon woke up at the crack of dawn, the air cool and filled with anticipation. After a quick breakfast of fresh fruit and pastries, they climbed into the safari vehicle with Joseph, eager for the day’s adventures. Joseph turned to them with a grin. “Today, we’re going to see if we can find that pride of lions I mentioned. They’ve been spotted near a large tree, not too far from here.” Emilia and Leon exchanged excited glances. “Let’s go!” Emilia said, her eyes sparkling with

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As they drove through the golden grasslands, the early morning light cast long shadows across the savannah. Birds sang their morning songs, and the occasional rustle in the bushes hinted at the hidden wildlife. Before long, they spotted the pride of lions lounging in the shade of a large acacia tree. “There they are,” Joseph said softly, bringing the vehicle to a gentle stop. “Look at the cubs.” Emilia’s eyes widened as she pointed. “Oh, look at them play! They’re so cute!” Leon focused his camera on the scene, snapping photos of the playful young lions as they pounced on each other and rolled in the dust. “That male lion looks like a king,” he said, admiring the powerful lion with an impressive mane. Joseph nodded. “He’s the pride’s protector. Male lions have a very important role in keeping the pride safe from threats.”

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As they watched the lions, a herd of elephants appeared in the distance, slowly making their way to a nearby watering hole. Joseph smiled. “Let’s get a closer look.” They drove closer to the watering hole, arriving just in time to see the elephants splashing and playing in the water. The scene was one of pure joy, with elephants using their trunks to spray water over themselves and each other. One curious baby elephant wandered closer to their vehicle, flapping its ears and trumpeting softly. Emilia laughed. “It’s like he’s saying hello!” Leon reached out his hand toward the elephant, amazed by its curiosity. “Hey there, little guy.” Joseph chuckled. “Elephants are incredibly intelligent and social animals. This little one is just checking us out.”

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After spending some time with the elephants, they moved on to a nearby river. Hippos lounged in the water, their massive bodies barely visible beneath the surface. Crocodiles sunned themselves on the banks, looking deceptively lazy. “Look at those hippos,” Emilia said. “They look so calm, but I’ve heard they’re actually quite dangerous.” Joseph nodded. “That’s right. Hippos are responsible for more human fatalities in Africa than any other large animal. They’re very territorial, especially in the water. However, they are amazing parents and very protective of their young.” Leon snapped a few photos of the hippos and crocodiles. “It’s amazing to see them in their natural habitat.”

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The highlight of the day came when they stumbled upon a cheetah resting in the shade of a tree. Joseph brought the vehicle to a halt, and they watched in awe. “Cheetahs are the fastest land animals,” Joseph explained. “They can reach speeds up to 70 miles per hour in short bursts.” Leon marveled at the sleek, spotted cat. “Can you imagine running that fast?” Emilia shook her head. “It’s incredible. Look at how elegant it is.” As they watched the cheetah, it suddenly perked up, its gaze fixed on something in the distance. Joseph whispered, “Looks like it’s spotted something.” The cheetah stood up, muscles tensed, and then, in a blur of motion, it was off. They watched in stunned silence as the cheetah chased down its prey with breathtaking speed. “Wow,” Leon breathed. “That was unbelievable.” Joseph smiled. “Welcome to the Serengeti.”

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That evening, back at the camp, they gathered around a campfire with fellow travelers, their faces lit by the flickering flames. As they shared stories of their day, the camaraderie among them grew stronger. They listened to tales of close encounters and near misses, each story more thrilling than the last. One traveler, a woman named Sarah, recounted her experience of getting too close to a hippo. “I was on a walking safari,” she said, “and we accidentally stumbled upon a hippo hiding in the tall grass. It charged, and we had to run for our lives! Luckily, we managed to climb a tree just in time.” Emilia shuddered. “That sounds terrifying.” Sarah nodded. “It was, but it was also a reminder of how powerful and unpredictable nature can be. Respect is key out here.” Leon shared their experience with the curious baby elephant, and another traveler, Mark, told them about a close encounter he had with a leopard. “I was out with my guide, and we spotted a leopard stalking through the grass. It was so stealthy, I almost missed it. Suddenly, it pounced on a gazelle right in front of us. The raw power and grace were awe-inspiring.”

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As the night wore on, they laughed, exchanged more stories, and marveled at the incredible experiences they had shared. Emilia leaned against Leon, feeling a deep sense of contentment. “I can’t believe how much we’ve seen and done already,” she said. Leon nodded. “This trip is everything we hoped for and more.” Joseph, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. “The Serengeti has a way of touching your soul. It’s a place of wonder, where every day brings new surprises. I’m glad you’re enjoying it.” Emilia smiled. “We’re loving every moment. Thank you, Joseph, for making it so special.” As the fire crackled and the stars twinkled overhead, they felt a deep connection to the land and each other. The Serengeti had already given them unforgettable memories, and they knew there were more adventures to come.

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CHAPTER III THE

UNEXPECTED

ADVENTURE

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On their third day, Emilia and Leon awoke with a sense of excitement. Today, they were going to take a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti. The idea of seeing the landscape from above was thrilling. They had heard stories of how magical it was to float silently over the vast plains, and now it was their turn to experience it.

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As the sun began to rise, they found themselves at the launch site, where a massive balloon was being prepared. The pilot, a jovial man named David, greeted them with a wide smile. “Good morning! Are you ready for an adventure in the skies?” “Absolutely,” Leon replied, squeezing Emilia’s hand. “Let’s get you on board,” David said, helping them into the basket. “We’ll be up in no time.” With a roar of the burners, the balloon began to lift off the ground. Emilia’s heart raced with excitement as they ascended. The view was breathtaking. The vast plains stretched out as far as the eye could see, bathed in the golden light of the rising sun. “Look at that!” Emilia exclaimed, pointing to a group of giraffes nibbling on treetops below. “They’re so graceful.” Leon was equally mesmerized. “And over there—rhinos lumbering through the grass.” David guided the balloon smoothly, allowing them to take in the sights. “This is one of the best ways to see the Serengeti,” he said. “You get a sense of just how expansive and alive this place is.” From their lofty perch, they also spotted a group of ostriches racing across the plains, their long legs moving with surprising speed. “It’s like a scene from a nature documentary,” Leon said, snapping photos.

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Just as they were beginning to descend, David received a message on his radio. “Exciting news, folks! A coalition of cheetahs has been spotted nearby. We’ll head down and get you back to Joseph so you can see them.” Their hearts pounded with anticipation as the balloon gently touched down. Joseph was waiting with the safari vehicle, his face lit with excitement. “A group of cheetahs hunting! We’re in for a treat.” They quickly set off, the vehicle bouncing over the uneven terrain. As they neared the location, they saw the cheetah brothers in action, skillfully coordinating their movements as they closed in on the zebras. “Look at them go,” Emilia whispered, captivated by the raw power, speed, and precision of the hunt. Leon watched in awe. “It’s incredible how they work together.” Joseph nodded. “Male cheetahs are known for their teamwork & speed when it comes to haunting large prey, like zebras & buffalos. They form a group called the coalition that is made up of mostly brothers. Most of their chases last only a few second, which is the fastest of all predators.”

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The excitement was palpable as they observed the chase, but it was suddenly interrupted by a distant rumble of thunder. The skies darkened, and within moments, a torrential downpour began. The rainy season had arrived early, and the savannah was quickly drenched. Joseph skillfully navigated the muddy tracks, but the vehicle soon got stuck in the thick mud. Emilia and Leon couldn’t help but laugh at their predicament. “Well, this is certainly an adventure,” Leon said, trying to keep the mood light. Emilia grinned. “At least we’re getting the full safari experience.” Joseph radioed for help, and they settled in to wait. “It shouldn’t be too long,” he assured them. “In the meantime, let’s enjoy the rain. It’s a part of life here.” They watched as the rain poured down, turning the landscape into a lush, vibrant scene. Despite the situation, they found joy in the unexpected turn of events. Emilia and Leon shared stories of their lives back home, & Joseph told them about his experiences growing up in Tanzania and his passion for wildlife. Eventually, another safari vehicle arrived to tow them out. The rescue team, led by a jovial guide named Peter, greeted them with friendly banter. “Looks like you folks could use a hand!” “You’re our heroes,” Emilia said with a laugh, helping to attach the tow ropes.

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Once they were free, they made their way back to camp, muddy but exhilarated by the day’s events. As they arrived, the camp staff welcomed them with warm towels and hot drinks. “You look like you’ve had quite the adventure,” one of the staff members said, handing them steaming cups of tea. “We certainly did,” Leon replied, grinning. That evening, they gathered around the campfire once again. The rain had stopped, leaving the air fresh and cool. The flickering flames cast a warm glow as they shared the day’s events with their fellow travelers. “I can’t believe we got stuck in the mud,” Emilia said, shaking her head. “But it was kind of fun.” Sarah, the traveler they had met the previous night, laughed. “Welcome to safari life. It’s all part of the experience.” Mark, the leopard spotter, added, “Sometimes the unexpected moments are the best ones. They make the stories you tell when you get back home.” Joseph smiled at Emilia and Leon. “You handled it well. And you got to see wild dogs—something not everyone gets to witness.” As the night wore on, they toasted marshmallows and listened to the sounds of the Serengeti. The laughter and camaraderie around the campfire made them feel

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like part of a close-knit community, united by their love for adventure and the wild beauty of Africa. Emilia leaned against Leon, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. “This trip has been full of surprises,” she said softly. “And I wouldn’t change a thing.” Leon nodded, wrapping his arm around her. “Me neither. It’s been amazing.” With the stars twinkling overhead and the gentle sounds of the night surrounding them, they knew that their safari was more than just a vacation—it was an adventure that had touched the deepest corners of their hearts.

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CHAPTER IV

FAREWELL

WILD

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On their final day in the Serengeti, Joseph promised Emilia and Leon a special surprise. “We’re heading to a secluded part of the reserve,” he said as they set off in the early morning light. “It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, and I think you’ll love it.” Emilia and Leon were curious. They had seen so many incredible animals already, but the idea of exploring a new part of the reserve filled them with excitement. The drive took them through lush landscapes, with the morning sun casting a golden glow over the plains.

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When they arrived, they were greeted by a symphony of bird calls. The air was alive with the sounds of chirping, singing, and the rustle of wings. “Wow,” Emilia breathed, looking around in wonder. “This place is magical.” Leon pointed to a flash of color in the trees. “Look at that bird! It’s stunning.” Joseph smiled. “That’s a lilac-breasted roller. One of the most beautiful birds you’ll see here.” The lilac-breasted roller was indeed a sight to behold, with its vibrant plumage of blues, greens, & purples. Emilia & Leon watched in awe as it flitted from branch to branch, its colors shimmering in the sunlight.

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As they explored further, they encountered flamingos wading gracefully in a nearby lake, their pink feathers contrasting beautifully with the blue water. Eagles soared overhead, their keen eyes scanning the ground below for prey. And in the distance, they spotted a rare sight—a secretary bird strutting through the grass, its long legs and distinctive crest making it easy to identify. “This is incredible,” Leon said, snapping photos of the birds. “I never knew there were so many different species here.” Joseph nodded. “The Serengeti is home to over 500 species of birds. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers.” Emilia smiled. “I’m glad we got to see this. It’s a perfect way to end our safari.”

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Their last afternoon was spent visiting a Maasai village. As they arrived, they were welcomed with traditional songs & dances, the vibrant colors of the Maasai clothing and the rhythmic beat of the drums creating an atmosphere of celebration. “Welcome to our village,” said a Maasai elder named Kamau. “We are honored to have you here.” Emilia and Leon were fascinated by the Maasai culture. They learned about their customs, their deep connection to the land and wildlife, and their way of life that had remained largely unchanged for centuries. They watched as the Maasai men performed their famous jumping dance, leaping high into the air in a display of strength & agility. “Would you like to join in?” Kamau asked, a twinkle in his eye. Leon laughed. “I don’t know if I can jump that high, but I’ll give it a try!”

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He and Emilia joined the dance, laughing and clapping along with the Maasai. It was a joyous, unforgettable experience, and they felt a deep sense of connection with the people who had welcomed them so warmly. As they said their goodbyes to the villagers, Emilia felt a pang of sadness. The trip had been more than just a safari; it had been a profound experience that connected them with nature and the people who lived in harmony with it. Kamau clasped Leon’s hand. “Thank you for visiting our village. We hope you will carry a piece of the Maasai spirit with you. ” “We will,” Leon replied sincerely. “This has been an incredible experience.”

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That evening, as they watched their final African sunset from a hill overlooking the plains, Emilia and Leon reflected on their journey. They had seen incredible animals, experienced the thrill of the wild, and gained a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural world. “We’ve had the adventure of a lifetime,” Leon said, wrapping his arm around Emilia. “And we’ll carry these memories with us forever,” she replied, smiling. As the stars began to twinkle in the vast African sky, they knew that their safari had been more than they ever dreamed. It had left them with stories to tell, a newfound love for the wild places of the world, and a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures that call Africa home. The next leg of their adventure awaited. They had planned to visit some of the vibrant towns and cities of Tanzania, eager to experience the rich tapestry of African culture beyond the savannah.

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Joseph, who had become more than just a guide, saw them off at the airstrip. “Your journey doesn’t end here,” he said. “There is so much more to see and learn. Enjoy the towns, the markets, the people. They are as much a part of Africa as the wildlife.” Emilia hugged him. “Thank you for everything, Joseph. You’ve made this trip unforgettable.” Leon shook his hand warmly. “We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. We’ll miss you.” Joseph smiled. “And I will miss you both. Safe travels, and may your hearts always carry a piece of Africa.” As their plane took off, Emilia and Leon looked down at the vast expanse of the Serengeti one last time. The memories of the lions, elephants, and the warm embrace of the Maasai people filled their hearts. “We’re not saying goodbye,” Emilia said softly. “We’re just moving on to the next chapter.” Leon nodded. “And what an amazing chapter it will be.”

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Their next destination was Arusha, a bustling city known for its vibrant markets, rich history, and as a gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro. They planned to explore local art galleries, taste traditional Tanzanian cuisine, and immerse themselves in the daily life of the city.

As they descended into Arusha, the city sprawled out below them, a mix of modern buildings and traditional homes, with the majestic silhouette of Kilimanjaro in the distance. They could already hear the hum of activity and feel the energy of the city. “Here we go,” Emilia said, her excitement building. “Let’s dive into the culture and see what adventures await us.” Leon smiled. “To new experiences and endless adventures.” And so, with hearts full of anticipation and a spirit of adventure, Emilia and Leon set off on the next leg of their journey, ready to discover the vibrant, diverse, & endlessly fascinating world of African towns and culture.

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A L O T P Z C S K E O L C E R S R B I F R S X C S W I L D E B E E S T S N O M A D S U A K W N O A H P E Y F O R B F R I P H S G D P T S T R T K WH M A A S A I M A R A C D I O A D P L I R A D E L H M N R D P L G N W R M W I L D L I F E X D R J E E P M O C H K W N G U N D S E A T S R F S R S T X N I L T M R H I N O O C E Q I Y B T A N Z A N I A S L Q H S P I S Q P Z B K E B Q V N H A T E V M O D R G S D U B T F E L E P H A N T P E N R O S T R I C H A P H O G Y B A B G A U L X A K V D O R S L K T Q E

Word Puzzle

Scavenger Hunt

5 3 9

8 2

Crossword

Riddles #1 Cheetah #2 Serengeti #3 Buffalo #4 Binoculars #5 Enkangs #6 Giraffe

10 11

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G R 4 E H 1C A L V E S T R M B 2B I G F I V E V G 1 P O R 3 P R E D A T O R S I T E D I 5 E 4 K O P J E S N P 3 5 B A B O O N S T D T U E M D U

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EDITORIALS

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NEXT AUG 20, 2024

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THE STOR Y PHOTOGRAPHERS BEHIND

THE

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O LYA H I L L brings her passion & professional

background in production into all she does, both creatively & professionally. She brings years of research into the psychology of customer behavior and is widely known for her work as the Creative Director for LivingNotes®. Her work in photography has been sought after by many global brands. She maintains a leading edge on creating visual presentations that have wowed readers and clients alike. Olya is a well-respected & sought-after thought leader and innovator in the fields of advertising and human psychology. She has developed unique methods of using color undertones and hues to shape viewers’ emotional responses. While undetectable, these methods have been proven effective to promote specific reactions from readers when viewing images and videos. Her work has been featured in various digital and print publications such as Goop, Parents, Pregnancy and Newborn, Real Simple, and Thrive Global to name a few. Her unique creative advertising ideas have been placed on the Times Square Billboards.

B O B B Y A M I R E B R A H I M I , a Los Angeles

based photographer, grew up among his dad’s rolls of film and camera lenses with many hours spent at shoots and in the darkroom having endless conversations on techniques, composition, & what it takes to create compelling images. Bobby’s singular perspective, creativity, and storytelling abilities combined with his technical perfection are apparent in every single one of his shots. He mainly draws inspiration from nature and people as he gravitates to create real and meaningful memories of moments when light, shadows, emotions, & imagination come together in perfect harmony. His experience, expertise, and ability to create are very diverse. Bobby is able to create imagery that one would expect to be found in National Geographic just as easily as capturing street style in a film-like matter. He is also fully accomplished in producing commercial imagery. His unique take on seemingly ordinary objects & the ability to combine that with clients’ vision is one of Bobby’s biggest strengths.

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CATALOGUE

ere is a catalogue of the pictures used in this editorial that are available to be ordered. All you need to do is to fill out this form and you will forever own a piece of our unforgettable safari memories from Tanzania and Kenya. If you are a Fine Art collector, please take a look at our Fine Art catalogues: Collectible Unique Pieces Collectible Limited Series As a reminder, a portion of the proceeds from all sales goes to The Lion Foundation to support Maasai people and also protecting lion prides and the precious and very important ecosystem of Serengeti National Park and beyond.

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BOOKMARKS

IMPORTANT LINKS Origins & Destinations Travel Group

Experiences & Packages Instagram

Point D’Vue

Fine Art Gallery Art Gallery Instagram

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