Back Into the Bush -- For a Day

With Thursday being one of the 'Rest Days' for the World Cup, prior to the beginning of the quarterfinals, we decided to take a short drive over to Krugersdorp. This is the area where there is a large, private game reserve, which among other things, contained the large cats I'd yet to see in a semi-wild setting. The reserve was a bit crowded, as others with time away from soccer, as well, were thinking the same thing. Nonetheless, we were able to find several species to 'check off the list', and that I had not seen in the earlier outings.

One of the first of the large plains antelope we saw was the graceful, and distinctive, sable antelope, this bull was keeping company with a small group of gemsbok, which we call oryx. The gemsbok have an advantage over most when it comes to having a built-in 'back scratcher'.

Also ever-present were ostrich, everywhere there seemed to be an ostrich, or two, and this couple looked to be as much confused, as curious, of the passersby.

As mentioned this is a 'semi-wild' setting, and the predators: lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, are fed, not allowed to hunt, for the good of the rest of the reserve's population. Naturally, there is clean-up to be done after such feedings, and just to remind all this is not a zoo, or Disney, Katie, the resident clean-up crew made an appearance on cue. Quite ugly, nasty creatures, but a fascinating process to watch, regardless. There is a sort of order in their chaos, with everyone getting their turn, but there is some "discussion" about whose turn it is from time to time.

The official name of the reserve is Rhino and Lion Park, so of course, there were a number of rhino, which are among the most endangered of all mammals in Africa. These creatures are immense and they are usually feeding to keep that huge body fueled. With their eyesight being quite poor, their ears are constantly rotating, looking to pick up any sounds that may announce danger, of most concern when a young rhino is present, as not many predators are a match for the bulk and weaponry of an adult rhino.

Another animal I'd yet to see, and wanted to, as to me, it so symbolizes South Africa, is the Cape Buffalo. One of the "Big Five" species of trophy game, in many ways, this is the most dangerous of all, as it travels in large herds, and is usually never one to back away from a fight. Coming across a group of resting buffalo has an ominous tone of caution attached to such a sighting and they should always be given a wide berth. In this case, a long telephoto lens was just about the right distance.

As the afternoon light grew longer, and more "African", we found a couple more 'subjects' willing to pose just long enough to take advantage of that short time of late afternoon light. The diminutive springbok, the national symbol of South Africa, at least their beloved rugby team, was a stark contrast to the cow eland we came across, which is the largest antelope species on the continent.

And of course, there were some 'big cats' to be seen, namely cheetahs and lions. These were contained in separate enclosures from the plains game, but could be found with a bit a searching, as their time of day is evening, and during the afternoon, lounging in what shade can be found is their prime pastime.

But just to make sure one is not lulled into some sense that these are warm and fuzzy, cuddly creatures, reminders are never far off that the lion is indeed the king of the jungle, and they are quick to remind any doubters of just that fact. It is a convincing argument, especially when witnessed up close.....

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