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.
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.
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.
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.
Can anybody tell me why the Giraffe (and lion) have that black coloured section tail terminal ?
And just look at that ox-pecker assembley !
I just wanted to thank you so much for the awesome video of the giraffe babies! How cool that the mom had twins! And the sunset in the background was the icing on the cake as they say. Thank You guys at Wildcast for the total joy of seeing such breathtaking animals!
The tail tip on many animals is black. Giraffe, wildebeest, buffalo, have long black tails hairs used mainly for getting rid of pestering flies. In the lions case it’s totally different. A short tuft of black that is thought to provide a visual aid to cubs to follow in long grass.
Thanks for sharing ,interesting and it all makes perfect sense !
Very nicely shot. I love the golden light spreading across the forest. The yellow shades make some evenings really special. Giraffes can be quick!