Kruger - home of the Big 5

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21 Oct - time to explore Kruger. Some are going on an organised game drive in jeeps while others / the select few decide to take our chances with Priscilla - it worked before in Etosha, coz you're so high up...not to mention we have access to the cool box with the Savannas and will save a few rand, lol.

Our gamble pays off. We have an amazing morning and spot all of the Big 5 within a few hours, very unusual. First we see an elephant, then a family of lions by the side of the road, several buffalo, white rhino (very close up) and TWO leopards. Leopards are EXTREMELY difficult to spot during game drives due to their camouflage and sleeping habits. First off I only catch a glimpse of one running off in the bush but later that morning we spot a huge one lounging in a tree with its paws dangling from the branches. Very far off, and difficult to photograph without a huge lens, but the photo below gives an idea of just how difficult it is to spot these animals in the bush.

We also spot giraffe, zebra, warthog, impala, kudu and blue wildebeest during the day. All in all it was an amazing day - low maintenance option taking the Priscilla (not as hot, sweaty and dusty and more comfortable!), amazing scenery and sooooooo good to see 2 leopards, the others were dead jealous! I celebrate by cracking open the savanna with the boys.

Another bonus of not taking the official game drive is that we arrive at the campsite at 2pm. Great to arrive early and chillout for a few hours before everyone else gets back hot, tired and peed off that we saw more animals.

V excited about heading to Mozi tomorrow...

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Photos

5 - Leopard
Clue - look for the dangling paw!

Cheers to spotting big 5
Brent, Isaac and Charlie

Comments

[Angela Middlemass]

Wow!!!
Shona, You are having a BLAST - it looks and sounds amazing. Wish I was there with you! Take care. Angela x

[Editor of National Geographic]

Need an assistant!
Hi Shona, I am looking for a new photogrpaher for our small magazine. After seeing your great wildlife shots(particularly the leopard shot) I think you could be the one. Our readers would lov to see more of your work! Kind Regards, Tom Malone National Geographic Editor

[Shons]

Need an assistant
Dear Mr NG Editor, I am extremely interested in your offer. I would, however, recommend that your readers may be more interested in the wildlife photos taken recently in India by the No.1, award winning Irish wildlife photographer, Mr Liam. PS You're HILARIOUS, what d'ya expect from a wee pink camera, now feck off.