Daily Archive for December 14th, 2008

After Dark


I have been loving the sunsets of late, the sky has been filled with the richest reds and brightest yellows. Although, to top a sunset off, all one has to do is put an animal in the picture and then the golden light reaches maximum appreciation. I had followed a curious looking Giraffe around during the setting sun and tried to capitilize on the light conditions.

Manyari & Chahwihwi, Malilangwe
I still could not wait for evening to set-in to witness the expected Geminids meteor shower - an estimated 50 – 80 meteors an hour if one looked to the east. However, this was robbed from us as a full moon makes it difficult to view any meteor; and to top it all, cloud cover was the domnant force in the sky last night.
Well regardless, the evening did bring along a surprise, which was Sjambok’s appearance on the scene after a long walk about. After parading his ribcage for all to see, it would appear he had done some mileage over the last few days with little sustenance - trying hard to be the king of every other lion pride’s terf no doubt.

Buffalo, Simbiri, Malilangwe

As the sun tucked itself behind the first hill, the hunting began. Buffalo was the first order of the evening, but the distraction of an easier prey allowed them to slip away. I think Manyari was dishing out the punishment for Sjambok, because no sooner did his walk about end, then did it begin with a mammoth meander south through the toughest terrains. Eventually at the break of dawn, things were looking up for the pride’s hunting expedition with a herd of resting wildebeest in sight.

Baby Wildebeest, Malilangwe

It seemed Sjambok was not quick enough off the mark and the whole hunt disintegrated into a lion styled lazy Sunday morning lie around. Another sunset may bring success to the prides hunting escapades and Kim and I will be hot on their heels to capture the moment.

Mark
Grey Heron, Chiredzi River