#Serengeti Reserve

[pangeen]

" The Hunt Sprint " // © Ellis Huber

Music: © Solstice Beats - Teaser Music (From "Avatar 2: The Way of Water")

[eriadav]

What are the best birding sanctuaries in Tanzania?

Travel Company: DAV Safaris

Website: www.davsafaris.com

Email:info@davsafaris.com

Tel: +256757795781 or +256701412430

Tanzania, a breathtaking gem in East Africa, is not only celebrated for its stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife but also for its remarkable avian diversity. With over 1,100 recorded bird species, this country is a true paradise for birdwatchers. Whether you are a seasoned ornithologist or a casual nature lover, Tanzania offers an array of birding sanctuaries that promise unforgettable experiences. This guide will delve into the best birding sanctuaries in Tanzania, highlighting key locations, notable species, and essential tips for your Tanzania birding tours.

1. Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is arguably the most famous wildlife reserve in the world. While known for the Great Migration, its diverse birdlife is equally captivating. The park hosts over 500 bird species, making it a premier destination for birding enthusiasts.

In the Serengeti, birdwatchers can expect to see the elegant Secretary Bird, the majestic African Fish Eagle, and various species of vultures and raptors. The park’s varied habitats, ranging from open savannas to lush riverine forests, provide a rich tapestry for bird watching.

Birding is excellent year-round, but the wet season (November to April) is particularly rewarding. During this time, migratory species flock to the area, enhancing your bird watching experience.

2. Ngorongoro Crater

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ngorongoro Crater is a unique ecosystem that supports a diverse range of wildlife and bird species. Its stunning landscapes create an unforgettable backdrop for bird watching.

The crater is home to the rare Black Rhinoceros and over 200 bird species, including the impressive Lammergeier and the striking Kori Bustard. The mix of habitats—from expansive grasslands to dense woodlands—greatly enhances the birding experience.

The dry season (June to October) offers optimal visibility for wildlife, including birds. This period is ideal for spotting both resident and migratory species.

3. Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and grasslands. This park is a birdwatcher’s dream, with over 400 bird species recorded.

Birdwatchers can spot the iconic Flamingos, the colorful African Jacana, and the striking Grey-headed Kingfisher. The park is also known for its large populations of pelicans and storks, making it a birding hotspot.

The wet season attracts migratory birds, while the dry season provides excellent opportunities to see resident species. Thus, it’s a prime destination throughout the year.

4. Tarangire National Park

Tarangire is known for its iconic baobab trees and large herds of elephants. This hidden gem offers incredible bird watching opportunities, thanks to its diverse habitats.

Key Species

Look for the Tawny Eagle, the African Pygmy Goose, and the vibrant Yellow-collared Lovebird. Tarangire is also home to many migratory species during the wet season, enhancing the bird watching experience.

The best months for bird watching are during the wet season (November to April) when migratory birds arrive, providing a spectacular display for birdwatchers.

5. Ruaha National Park

As Tanzania's largest national park, Ruaha offers a unique mix of savanna and bushland, providing an excellent birding experience. Its remote location means fewer tourists, allowing for a more intimate bird watching adventure.

Ruaha is home to over 570 bird species, including the striking African Harrier-Hawk and the colorful Lilac-breasted Roller. The diversity of habitats supports a wide range of birdlife, making each visit unique.

The dry season (June to October) is ideal for spotting wildlife, including birds, as they become more active and visible.

6. Lake Victoria

As the largest lake in Africa, Lake Victoria supports a rich variety of bird species. The lake's wetlands and shores create perfect conditions for bird watching.

Look for the African Fish Eagle, Papyrus Gonolek, and various heron species. The lake is crucial for migratory birds, making it a hotspot during specific times of the year.

The wet season (November to April) attracts many migratory species, enhancing bird watching opportunities and making it a prime location during this period.

7. Amani Nature Reserve

Located in the Usambara Mountains, Amani Nature Reserve is a lesser-known sanctuary that offers a unique birding experience. The lush rainforest and diverse habitats provide a haven for many bird species.

Birdwatchers can look for the endemic Usambara Thrush and the vibrant Amani Sunbird, along with numerous other forest birds. This reserve plays a critical role in bird conservation in Tanzania.

Birding is excellent year-round, but the dry season offers the best opportunities for spotting endemic species, making it a must-visit for dedicated birdwatchers.

8. Usambara Mountains

The Usambara Mountains are characterized by a range of ecosystems, from montane forests to grasslands. This area is rich in biodiversity, making it a fantastic location for birding.

The mountains host several endemic species, including the Uluguru Bushshrike and the Tanzania Mountain Greenbul. The lush vegetation supports a variety of other birds, providing numerous bird watching opportunities.

The dry season (June to October) is best for bird watching, as birds are more active and visible, allowing for better sightings.

c provide an incredible opportunity to explore the country’s rich avian biodiversity. From the iconic Serengeti to the serene Amani Nature Reserve, each location offers unique bird watching experiences. Whether you're embarking on Tanzania birding tours or exploring these stunning sanctuaries independently, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories. Prepare your binoculars, pack your camera, and get ready to witness the incredible birdlife that Tanzania has to offer!

Book with DAV Safaris on www.dasafaris.com   or our expert team directly

[kimgonitanzaniasafaris]

Tanzania National Park And Game Reserves Are The Venues To Watch The Best Of Africa’s Wildlife!

Kenya and Tanzania are the east African countries which appear to be very interesting venues from the visitors’ perspective. These two countries use to share their borders with each other. Well, some of the most notable game reserves and national parks are located in Tanzania and Serengeti national park is one of them. Most of us have heard about the great migration of the wildebeest or at least most of us have seen this great migration on the TV channels like National Geographic, Animal Planet, Discovery, etc. Are you ready to experience and explore the same sort of happening occasion right before your eyes? If yes, and you are preparing for the safari visits in Africa, then the time has come to opt for the east African country Tanzania. This is the African country where the Serengeti national park is located and this is the venue where such great migration uses to happen every year. Not only the wildebeests use to migrate but also zebras and antelopes also migrate during this time of the year. So you need to be right there during the right time of the year in Serengeti, if you really want to watch this great migration live!

You will be at the right place during the right time

For the visitors who are desperate to see this great wild occurrence, Tanzania Serengeti safari tours can bring the best possible chance for you. These tours are arranged during the right time of the year so that your chances to see the migration can remain high. The best safari cabs along with drivers and tour guides are also deployed so that you can reach for the best place to get the best view of the great migration.

Know more about these notable destinations

Tanzania national park and game reserves are really very popular among the travelers. No matter where you are located in this world, there is always a chance that you know Serengeti national park. So the time has come to explore more about these notable venues while visiting Tanzania

[adlertours]

The Great Migration

#TheGreatMigration Come and witness one of the Natural Wonders of the World The Great Migration is the largest over-land migration and is one of the Wonders of the Natural World where over 1.5 million wildebeest move in vast herds within the Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystems. This profusion of plains game attracts predators such as hyenas and the Big Cats, so game-viewing is particularly…

[xtruss]

In Kenya, Martial Eagles Hunt Lion Cubs For Lunch

Martial eagles, with wingspans that can exceed six feet, can take out young impalas or gazelles. Recently, researchers have seen them targeting another species’ young.

— By Joshua Rapp Learn | October 3, 2024

Martial Eagles (One Shown in Serengeti National Park) Occasionally Hunt Lion Cubs, New Rsearch Shows. Photograph By Klaus Nigge, National Geographic Image Collection

In December 2012, tour guides in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve witnessed a series of killings targeting one of the savannah’s top predators. An adult martial eagle followed a pride of lions for weeks, waiting for the right time to swoop in and kill three cubs in total.

“This is an eagle really looking at these lions and thinking, ‘I’m going to systematically hunt these lions,’” says R. Stratton Hatfield, a Ph.D. candidate at Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands.

A Juvenile Martial Eagle snatched this three-week-old lion cub on March 15, 2019, in the Mara North Conservancy, Kenya. No one saw the bird kill the cub. Based on the fledgling eagle's behavior, researchers suspect that an adult female gave the cub to the fledgling. Photograph By Jes Lefcourt

While the supposed kings of the jungle may dominate the land around them, this incident and others like it show that African lions (Panthera leo) may not always sit on top of the food chain when it comes to the skies. In fact, martial eagles (Polemaetus bellicosus) likely prey on lion cubs when the opportunity arises, Hatfield and his colleagues recently reported in Ecology and Evolution.

“It’s really a testament to the predatory nature of martial eagles,” Hatfield says.

Queen of the Skies

Martial eagles’ wingspans can exceed six feet. Adult females weigh more than 10 pounds, while adult males typically weigh around seven pounds. Though comparable in size and ecology to golden eagles, the species often kills larger prey. The birds swoop in and dig their razor-like talons into their prey’s spine at the back of their skull, sometimes taking out young impalas or gazelles far above their weight class. “[Their talons] are just massive killing utensils,” Hatfield says. “From a predator perspective, they are impressive in what they’re able to do.”

Hatfield’s team only recently realized the birds also preyed on other predators. The team collected seven records, including the 2012 incident, that describe martial eagles preying on lion cubs, resulting in the deaths of nine cubs and one near miss. Most of these episodes probably involve larger females, Hatfield suspects, though two records included juveniles preying on cubs.

The earliest case comes from 2008, when a photographer captured an image of an eagle feeding on a freshly killed cub, while the most recent was in 2023, when a safari guide saw a juvenile eagle hunt and kill a cub large enough that the raptor couldn’t fly off with it.

Risk Versus Reward

Despite their aerial antics, martial eagles are typically risk averse. “When they go to take a lion cub, it’s with a lot of recognition of the risks,” Hatfield says. But not all records seem to show this careful calculation.

In the one failed killing, a martial eagle swoops in to snatch a six-week-old cub right next to its mother. The lioness spots the approaching danger, and “literally leaps in the air to try to take the martial out of the sky,” Hatfield describes. “You can just see the lioness’s eyes lock onto something, then she crouches and launches.”

The eagle dodged the counterattack, and didn’t get the cub, but the whole maneuver “was just stupid.” Hatfield speculates that the raptor didn’t see the lioness. Episodes like this are so dangerous for the eagle, “you wonder if they are doing something ever just for fun,” he says.

Amy Dickman, a conservation biologist at Oxford University in the U.K., isn’t surprised that eagles will go after cubs again and again if the strategy proves successful. She also leads Lion Landscapes, a nonprofit focused on coexistence of humans and wildlife in Kenya and Tanzania, and says the conclusions of Hatfield’s team “seem sound.”

As far as the lions are concerned, “it’s just another kind of risk that lions have to deal with,” Dickman says, like predation from hyenas or male lions from competing prides. While she doesn’t think the eagles pose a conservation threat to the big cats, an individual pride in a given area might feel pressure if a martial eagle has honed in on their cubs as a food source. “It shows you how interesting and diverse the natural world is,” Dickman says.

Predators or Prey?

Martial eagles aren’t picky when it comes to big cats. Some have taken cheetah and leopard kittens, as well. Hatfield also notes the risk probably goes both ways—lions could and probably have hunted adult eagles or nests. At least one YouTube video shows a leopard killing a martial eagle.

“The relationships between top predators at the top of the [food] pyramid are complicated,” Hatfield says.

Martial eagles are considered endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and Hatfield hopes that studies like this bring more attention to their plight. Like other large raptors in Africa, the species faces habitat loss, poaching for parts, electrocution on power lines and persecution.

“We are all so focused on the elephant and lion and rhino,” Hatfield says. “A lot of these big eagles and vultures are going to go extinct right in front of our eyes.”

[tsalala]

How do you know so much about the current lion prides? It's really cool I'm just curious

i’ve been following lion dynamics in the sabi sands, kruger, serengeti, and maasai mara regions on and off for nearly five years. i started following them because there was a lot more content for african lions and other cats compared to indian tigers, the latter which used to be my favorite of all the panthers and my once greatest obsession lol. all i do is keep tabs on photographers, rangers, trackers, and the game reserves themselves for any updates on their wildlife.

to a lesser extent i also keep tabs on north american and patagonian cats and indian tigers, especially machli’s descendants in ranthambhore tiger reserve.

[brettgilbreath]

Three Incredible African Safari Destinations

Africa is a famous vacation spot, with millions of tourists visiting the continent yearly to go on safari, a word in Swahili meaning trip. Visitors who go on safari have the opportunity to see a wide variety of wild animals in their natural habitat. Among the many safari destinations, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa are considered to be the best places to experience the beauty and splendor of the African wilderness.

For good reason, Kenya has long been regarded as the birthplace of the safari. It is home to the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve, which gives tourists the chance to see the "Big Five" (elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, lion, and leopard) and other wildlife including giraffes, hippos, and hyenas in one location. The Mara's diverse topography, from expansive savannahs to green riverine forests, provides the perfect backdrop for wildlife observation and photography.

The best time to go on safari in Kenya is during the dry season, which runs from July to October. This is when the spectacular Great Migration takes place, with over 1.5 million zebras, gazelles, and wildebeest moving from Tanzania's Serengeti National Park to Kenya's Maasai Mara in search of greener pasture. To reach the Maasai Mara during the Great Migration—which is recognized as one of the world's new wonders—the animals have to swim across the Mara River, which is packed with crocodiles, and sadly, many of them do not make it through the crossing. Predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards that lurk in the Maasai Mara still pose a threat to those animals that survive the Mara River crossing. Every year, thousands of visitors travel to Kenya and its neighbor Tanzania to witness the Great Migration.

Between July and October, travelers to Tanzania can also be a part of the Great Migration at the popular Serengeti National Park, which rivals Kenya's Maasai Mara in terms of natural beauty and wildlife. Tanzania is also home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage that hosts thousands of wild animals, including a large population of lions, elephants, wildebeest, and rhinos, making it one of the most densely populated wildlife areas in the world.

Another must-see destination in Tanzania is Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak. While not a traditional safari location, the iconic mountain adds to Tanzania's allure, offering opportunities for trekking and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Travelers interested in a more cultural experience can also interact with the Maasai people, a nomadic tribe living in Tanzania and Kenya who have rich traditions and a strong bond with the land and wildlife.

In South Africa, a well-liked safari attraction is Kruger National Park. This park is one of Africa's largest wildlife sanctuaries, spanning around 20,000 square kilometers. More than 500 bird species and 147 mammal species call it home, and many of the Big Five animals can also be spotted by visitors at Kruger National Park. The ideal time to go on safari at Kruger is also during South Africa's dry season, from April to October. At this time, animals congregate around waterholes and are easier to find because of the scant vegetation.

South Africa provides opportunities to visit wineries, seaside towns, and historical places like Nelson Mandela's jail cell at Robben Island, Cape Town, for people who want to mix a safari with other pursuits.

[serengetiwildtours]

Why You Should Go For The Serengeti Safari Package?

One definitely cannot miss the excitement of a Serengeti safari, with an unblinking view of Africa's most emblematic wildlife and landscapes. Needless to say, tourism flow to Tanzania safari tours continues to attract all kinds of visitors due to their diversity and variety. Whether you want to be driven to pamper your luxury or you are a full-fledged adventure, this will be one of the best ways of experiencing it all.

Serengeti Safari Packages: Heart of Wildlife Expedition

Serengeti National Park is found in the Northern safari circuit and presents any world-class safari lover with an excellent opportunity. It's considered one of the best locations to witness the great renowned Great Migration along the open plains. Serengeti safari package ranges from being taken to prime game viewing areas accompanied by guides. Among other things included in these packages include: accommodations and meals, guided game drives, walking safaris, and other special activities like balloon rides.

Why Tanzania Safari Tours?

The good number of national parks and reserves brings Tanzania in the fantasy list of most safari travellers. A wide variety of choices is possible in Tanzania safari tours whether you want to target specific activities such as bird watching, photography, or experience the Maasai culture.

Deals in Luxurious Comforts and Wilderness

Even in the remote Serengeti, safari packages can be very pricey. For safari travel adventures, luxury lodges and elite tented camps are available. Those who enjoy meeting the wild do not have to forgo comforts. Most packages offer gourmet food, private game drives, and professional guides, so all the hassle gets removed from your safari adventure.

Tailored to Various Budgets

Luxury safaris are a destination many want to visit; however, there are also budget-oriented packages when it comes to Tanzania safari tours. Affordable Serengeti packages offer group tours with shared accommodations and expert guiding services so you don't miss any of the magic of the Serengeti. A Serengeti safari package, along with the rich biodiversity in Tanzania, would be an experience where you'll come face-to-face with the grandeur of nature.

[msenvs3000f24]

Unit 2 Blog

In my ideal role as an environmental interpreter, I would act as a vital conduit between the natural world and the public, fostering a deep understanding and appreciation of ecosystems, wildlife, and environmental challenges. My primary objective would be to inspire a profound connection between individuals and nature, motivating communities to proactively engage in environmental conservation. By making complex ecological concepts both accessible and engaging, I aim to cultivate a sense of stewardship and encourage sustainable practices among diverse audiences.

My role would involve:

Designing and leading educational programs for diverse audiences, including school groups, families, and tourists. These programs would include guided nature walks, interactive exhibits, and workshops on topics such as biodiversity, climate change, and conservation, aiming to create immersive experiences that deepen understanding and appreciation of the natural world.

Collaborating with educators, scientists, and designers to create informative and engaging exhibits at nature centers, parks, or museums. These exhibits would use multimedia elements to enhance visitor learning and interaction. 

Leading workshops for educators and community groups to provide them with the tools and knowledge to integrate environmental education into their activities and daily lives.

Organizing community clean-up events, facilitating discussions on environmental issues, and working with local schools and governments to promote sustainability.

Assisting with data collection, wildlife monitoring, and habitat restoration, and translating scientific research into accessible information to bridge the gap between conservation science and public understanding.

The key responsibilities for this role involve creating and delivering engaging interpretive programs that educate the public about local ecosystems, wildlife, and environmental challenges, with the aim of inspiring a deeper connection to nature and promoting sustainable behaviors. Additionally, the role includes collaborating with professionals to design exhibits that provide visitors with informative, hands-on experiences related to environmental conservation and natural history, with a focus on not just informing but also inspiring action. Community engagement is a significant part of the role, encompassing activities such as organizing local environmental events and leading discussions on conservation and sustainability, while building relationships with local communities. Another critical aspect involves supporting ongoing research efforts and creating compelling educational content, such as brochures, social media posts, and website articles, ensuring that all content is scientifically accurate and engaging. Collaboration with other environmental professionals, such as park rangers, biologists, and educators, is essential to keep interpretive materials and programs current and aligned with conservation goals. 

The ideal location for this role would offer rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, such as national parks and nature reserves like Yellowstone or Yosemite, which provide opportunities for outdoor education and direct engagement with visitors in natural surroundings. Wildlife sanctuaries or nature reserves, such as the Galapagos Islands or Serengeti National Park, also offer hands-on roles in conservation and education, working to protect endangered species and fragile ecosystems. Coastal areas, mountains, or wetlands with diverse ecosystems would present various teaching opportunities about local habitats, wildlife, and the importance of sustainability. Alternatively, urban settings like museums, environmental learning centers, and outdoor education hubs would offer platforms for engaging a broader audience, including school groups, tourists, and community members, to raise awareness about environmental issues in city environments.

To excel as an environmental interpreter, a range of skills are essential. Strong communication skills, both in public speaking and writing, are crucial to effectively convey complex environmental issues in an engaging and accessible manner. A deep understanding of environmental science, ecology, geology, and local ecosystems is necessary to provide accurate and relevant information. Creativity plays an important role in developing interactive, hands-on activities and engaging programs that create memorable learning experiences. Interpersonal skills are key for working collaboratively with diverse groups, including park rangers, biologists, educators, and volunteers, to deliver effective interpretive programs. Adaptability is also required to tailor educational programs based on varying audiences, environments, and emerging environmental concerns. Proficiency in technical skills, such as using digital tools, social media, and multimedia, is important for creating educational materials and engaging with the public. Finally, a strong personal connection to the natural world, combined with a passion for sharing that enthusiasm, is essential to inspire others toward conservation efforts.

[nando161mando]

’On June 8, 2022, two days after the government announcement, dozens of police, military personnel, and game rangers arrived in Loliondo to demarcate the proposed game reserve. Over several days, the security forces arbitrarily arrested and detained 10 community leaders and fired teargas and rubber bullets at protesters and bystanders, injuring at least 30, including women, children, and older people.

Witnesses said police took from his home an 84-year-old man who has not been seen since. Security forces also destroyed residents’ property and shot and killed livestock. Up to 2,000 residents from various villages across Loliondo fled to seek refuge and medical treatment in neighboring Kenya.

The authorities also arbitrarily arrested and detained a human rights defender and a community member who had shared photos and videos of the violence and its aftermath on social media.

Since then, security forces have continued to commit abuses against Loliondo residents, with victims and witnesses recounting several instances of rape and other sexual violence, nightly raids, and shootings into homes. Residents said game rangers, who are under the authority of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, have confiscated livestock that had roamed into the demarcated game reserve, initially extorting exorbitant fees to return them and later auctioning them off.

The government contends that blocking access to the area is necessary to protect “the ecological integrity of the entire Great Serengeti,” the area of northern Tanzania involved, and announced that it was “investing in improving pasture grounds, markets for livestock and investment products, plus the provision of drinking water for both people and livestock.” In June 2022, the Natural Resources and Tourism Ministry stated that there are “no settlements” in the area and “therefore there is no eviction.”’

[bloginetqscwdqwdcqwlfdqw]

Top Tourist Attractions in Africa That You Have to See with Your Own Eyes

Africa is a continent of unparalleled beauty and diversity, boasting some of the world's most spectacular natural and cultural wonders. Here are some must-visit destinations that offer unforgettable experiences:

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Home to the iconic Great Migration, Serengeti National Park is one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations, teeming with lions, elephants, and other fascinating species against the backdrop of sweeping savannahs.

Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe

Known as the "Smoke that Thunders," Victoria Falls is one of the largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls on the planet, offering breathtaking views and thrilling adventures for visitors.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza stand as a testament to the ingenuity and architectural prowess of ancient Egypt, captivating travelers with their grandeur and mystique.

Table Mountain, South Africa

Dominating the skyline of Cape Town, Table Mountain offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline, making it a favorite destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Sahara Desert, Multiple Countries

The Sahara Desert is the world's largest hot desert, spanning multiple African countries and offering visitors the chance to experience its vast and mesmerizing landscapes.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is a pristine oasis in the heart of the Kalahari Desert, attracting travelers with its rich biodiversity and unparalleled opportunities for safari adventures.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, beckons adventure seekers from around the globe with its challenging but rewarding trekking routes and stunning views from the summit.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Renowned for its abundant wildlife and conservation efforts, Kruger National Park is a must-visit destination for safari enthusiasts, offering the chance to spot the Big Five and other iconic African species.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Home to roughly half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers visitors the rare opportunity to encounter these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Famous for its spectacular wildlife sightings, including the annual wildebeest migration, the Masai Mara National Reserve offers visitors the chance to witness the drama of the African savannah up close.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife and offering some of the best game viewing opportunities in Africa.

Marrakech, Morocco

A vibrant city steeped in history and culture, Marrakech enchants visitors with its bustling souks, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in North Africa.

Sossusvlei Dunes, Namibia

Rising from the heart of the Namib Desert, the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei are a photographer's dream, offering stunning vistas and unforgettable experiences for adventurous travelers.

Seychelles Beaches, Seychelles

With their pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, the beaches of the Seychelles are paradise on earth, perfect for relaxation, water sports, and romantic getaways.

Cape Winelands, South Africa

Renowned for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wines, the Cape Winelands region offers visitors the chance to indulge in wine tastings, gourmet cuisine, and scenic drives through rolling hills and valleys.

These are just a few of the many incredible attractions that Africa has to offer. Whether you're seeking wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, or simply breathtaking scenery, Africa has something for everyone to enjoy.

[horsesarecreatures]

Book review - Cry of the Kalahari by Mark & Delia Owens

Many of you probably already know Delia Owens as the author of Where the Crawdads Sings. It’s a book that I liked a lot, so I decided to read this book as well. It’s a memoir of the 7 years she and her husband Mark spent completely isolated in an uninhabited area of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve called Deception Valley studying wildlife. I enjoyed this book as well and learned a lot about the animals there. However, when I looked up Mark and Delia Owens to learn more about them, I found out that after this book was published they were involved in a very problematic incident in Zambia, and are still wanted for questioning over a murder that occurred there. I’m going to describe the book first and then describe what happened later. 

The book has chapters supposedly written by Mark and supposedly written by Delia, but the tone of all are the same so it doesn’t really have 2 separate voices. It begins in 1974, when Mark and Delia first went to the Kalahari with very little of their own money and no one funding them. As the years passed by, they wrote letters to universities and zoological societies with their findings and secured grants that allowed them to buy radio tracking collars and a plane, but in the beginning all they had was a truck and their journey into the desert was quite dangerous. 

Despite the truck breaking down, wildfires, losing their water supply due to a hole in the storage container, and almost running out of fuel many times, they managed to persevere there. Their main animal of study was the brown hyena. Very little was known about them compared to the larger spotted hyenas of the Serengeti. Their behavior was very odd, as they were thought to be solitary, but constantly left scent marks that other hyenas would find. Eventually, Mark and Delia discovered that they were not truly solitary, but the reason why remained unclear for a long time. In their own words:

“..after several months, a sketchy picture of their social organization began to emerge. We were sure that the 7 hyenas in the area were not solitary animals but members of a clan. Through muzzle wrestling and neck-biting contests, each had gained a particular rank in the social hierarchy, which was displayed and reinforced in greeting. Ivy, the only adult female of the group, was dominant...

Usually, when 2 hyenas met on a path, they would confirm their status through greeting, then separate. Neck-biting followed only when the status was not established, or when a hyena tried to rise through the ranks...

Lions, wolves, and other social carnivores usually sleep, hunt, and feed with at least some members of their group. But though the browns lived in a clan, they usually foraged and slept alone, only meeting with other group members occasionally, while traveling along common pathways or a kill. They have a limited repertoire of vocal signals, and none with which to communicate with over large distances, as do the spotted hyenas. This may be because the dry Kalahari air does not carry sound far, or perhaps because the territories are too large to transmit and receive even loud calls effectively...

This lack of a loud voice might seem to present a problem for animals who roam separately in jointly owned territory... However, the hyena’s well-developed system of  chemical communication through scent marking - pasting, as it is termed, probably takes the place of loud vocalizations...

So, the brown hyenas were a curious blend of social and solitary: They foraged and slept alone; they fed together at large carcasses, but carried away the remains for themselves at the first opportunity; they did not use loud vocalizations to communicate with each other, but did leave chemical messages. And, at least for a while, the females allowed the youngsters to follow them when they searched for food...

Despite the fact that they always foraged alone, brown hyenas, we now knew, we social - and quite social at that. But animals associate for adaptive purpose, not because they enjoy being together. Lions, wild dogs, wild wolves, primitive men, and spotted hyenas hunting in a group are able to kill larger prey than can a single individual. Brown hyenas were scavengers, for the most part, and they rarely hunted. But since they did not hunt together, why did they live in a clan and share large kills left by lions? Why did they need each other? Why did they socialize at all? There was a single answer for all these questions, as we were to discover.”

Aside from hyenas, the authors also made important discoveries about Kalahari lions and how they are different from Serengeti lions. The Kalahari is a much harsher environment, and therefore there is more mixing of lions between prides, and in droughts the prides often disband completely so the individuals can spread out over larger territories. 

The level of detail the authors went into about all of the animas was amazing. The overall tone of the book was pretty calm. The authors focused almost exclusively on the animals, and I found the book to be a pretty relaxing read. Which makes what I found out about the authors more surprising.

‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘

So after this book was published, the 2 of them got kicked out of Botswana for criticizing the government too heavily. There was really no indication of this until the last chapters, when Mark and Delia explained the issue of the thousands of miles of  fencing meant to curb foot and mouth disease causing the deaths of thousands of antelope when they had to migrate to water during a 2 year drought. They said that the government was in general good about conservation given the abundance of wildlife reserves in the country, but they had to take this issue more seriously, and it would likely upset the cattle ranchers and ultimately not much would be done. They said that people warned them that they might get kicked out if they pressed the issue too hard, but it didn't sound like they believed it. But anyway, it did happen, and for their next research project they went to Zambia and studied elephants.

While there, Mark became heavily involved in anti-poaching campaigns. Delia apparently separated from him during that time due to his excessive risk taking. But ultimately they got back together, and published the book The Eye of the Elephant, which was another success. While they were in Zambia, ABC also did a news segment on them called “Deadly Game: The Mark and Delia Owens Story.” During that documentary, a poacher was shot and killed, and they aired this. The cameraman who shot the murder claims it Chris Owens, the son of Mark Owens and Delia’s stepson (who was never mentioned at all in the first book - sounds like Mark abandoned him those 7 years), who delivered the fatal shot. Several people have also accused Mark Owens of later dumping the body into a lake off an aircraft. It was never found.

Overall, it sounds like Mark may have been operating a shoot-to-kill poacher policy in a country that didn’t have one. Mark, Delia, and Christopher are all wanted for questioning in Zambia and are unlikely to return there. This all sounds eerily similar to the plot of Where the Crawdads Sing, where the main character Kya commits a “justified” murder, and never returns to the town where she was accused. 

[kimgonitanzaniasafaris]

Exploring The Wonders: Tanzania National Park And Game Reserves Unveiled

Introduction:

Discovering The Wild within Tanzania Tanzania is an ideal destination for those who love wildlife as well as nature enthusiasts is a diverse collection of nature-inspired landscapes. This guide will help you learn more about the diversity of Tanzania's national parks and game reserves including a particular concentration on the famed Serengeti.

The Majestic Serengeti:

Heart of the African Safari The central point of Tanzania Serengeti safari tours is definitely that of the Serengeti National Park. The vast expanse filled with rolling plains, Acacia trees isn't just home to the Great Migration but also a permanent home for an amazing variety of animals. The vast Serengeti landscapes and abundance of wildlife are the perfect embodiment of what it is like to go on the ideal African safari.

Ngorongoro Crater The Crater of Ngorongoro:

A World Within a World The most significant feature in Tanzania national park and game reserves are that of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is the crown jewel of the region is the Ngorongoro Crater, is a top wildlife attraction in the world. The crater, which is a volcanic formation, has been around for centuries and forms an enclosure that is natural to the most diverse ecosystem giving visitors one of the most memorable experience safaris in Tanzania.

Tarangire and Lake Manyara: The Underrated Gems

The Hidden Wonders of Tarangire and Lake Manyara Beyond the Serengeti less well-known Tarangire as well as Lake Manyara National Parks await exploring. Tarangire is renowned because of its abundant wildlife in particular during dry season. Lake Manyara is celebrated for the amazing birdlife it has and its famed trees-climbing leopards. The parks are a part of the Tanzania Serengeti safari tours by their unique nature and landscapes.

Selous Game Reserve:

The Untouched Wilderness of Selous Game Reserve Selous Game Reserve is another gem within the crown of Tanzania's national park as well as game reserves provides a unique off-the-beaten-track trip. Being one of the largest protected regions within Africa, Selous is a refuge for lions, elephants and an array of bird species. It promises an intimate interaction with wild animals.

Conclusion: An Safari Adventure for the ages of tanzania national park and game reserves go beyond the wildlife areas. These are places of refuge where nature's story unfolds at its most pure. From the famous prairies and plains of Tanzania Serengeti safari tours to the mysterious wonders that lie within Selous, Tanzania beckons with an experience that's both deep and transformational. If you're looking to experience the unspoiled nature that is Africa, Tanzania offers an amazing journey into its beloved wild places.