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Published: August 5th 2008
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Lets start from the very begining It just dawned on me, that all i have told you about are all the fun things that i have been up to since arriving in this fantastic part of South Africa. There is a serious side to the reason way i have chosen to sent 2 months on this project. First its is a conservation project to learn about the african bush and its wildlife, including not just the amazing animals, but also the plants, insects and weather systems that play an important part in a very fragile eco-system that me, you and the rest of the population are bit by bit disturing for the rest of the planet.
Over the next 8 weeks i will be involved in some project work that will include removing snare traps left by poachers in the area and surrounding reserves (more on that subject later). removal of alien plants not naturally found in this area. Help in the prevention of erosion in the area. I wil also learn how to indentify animals by their tracks, droppings and sounds. Survival, navigation and many more subjects.
The camp is run by a Family which
was founded by Tinus & Suegnette, since Tinus pasting last year both their daughters are involved in the education work that is Campfire Safaris. Both Laetitia and Adele are full of knowledge and experience that they cant wait to pass on. They are also helped by Bee and Brass that are here to help out with everything from the days out, daily walks in the bush to ensuring everything is ok with the rest of the group.
The rest of the team is made up of us guys. Myself, Mel, Chris, Andrea, Nicola, T, Ben, James, Rob, Suzanne, Nanna, Richard, morv and many more that will join us over the next few weeks.
Today we had an early rise at 4.30am to go on an elephant ride. We left camp at 5.00am in the back of the jeep, we were offered the combi van to go in but were told that over the dirt track it is very bumping so we opted for the open jeep (BIG BIG MISTAKE) it was so cold in the open air we were all wrapped up in blankets lying on the floor of the jeep and at one stage i think it
was colder that iceland. We finally arrived at the reserve at about 6.15am. Myself, Mel, Morv, chris & Andrea were greeting if an amazing sight.
About 15 Elephants were lined up waiting for us. Around the reserve we could see yet another fantastic sun rise but with the morining mist since amongst the trees. After a talk about how the elephants are now in this reserve after being saved from Zimbabwe, we were than allocated own elephant for an hour and a half walk through the bush. these animals may be big but they walk so quietly and gentle, every so often they would walk of the track and grab a branch from the tree and munch away unitl they see the next one. My elephant was the pig of the group and was eating non stop. She also had a 2 year old calf by her side most of the time too. (So Buy one get one free). Once back the guides then removed the elephants saddles and it was play time for the herd. They went of into the bush with a couple of the guides. All this by 9.30am. Had to be another shite day in
South Africa.
Once we got back to the camp we had work to do. The nearest watering hole which we can see from the lookout tower needed to be emptied and clean water put back in. As you can see we all took it seriously and got stuck in.
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sandie and kerry
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Wow
Hiya how wonderful to be spending so much time with the ellies how I love them and the babes are so cute but I wouldnt want one stepping on my toes. I think what you are doing is so wondereful our mother earth is a special place and the more we can larn the better. Its tipping it with rain today so no going out for me I have'nt got and elllie only a granny mobil as Kerry so kindly puts it. Look forward to your next blog I am saving it all so I can make one of those wonderful American Style Scrap Books. Take care and dont get to cold spring will be on its way for you soon. Love and Hugs Sandie and Kerry xx