Day 6 - August 29, 2011

Up early and ready for morning drive. First sighting is of two giraffes and four zebras. Zebras are not common in this particular section of reserve, too many lions for them to be comfortable. A couple of quick photos and they were on their way!

Quick moving zebras

The four cubs have moved to a new location. They are rascals! Still out in the open more than they should be and still on their own. This is day three without food or water. Hard to understand why the lionesses leave them like this. We are hopeful that tomorrow they will be back with the pride and in safer situation.

This photo shows how out in the open the cubs are.

No food or water for three days.
We hope to see them with the pride soon.

A few elephants were on the side of the tar road, but we did not get too close.

A number of warthogs around also.

Henry the Hippo is very active and putting on a show when the Land Rovers left for drive. He is rather amusing!

The weather is clearing, but not enough to go on the Panaroma Tour that I had hoped to do today. I have contracted with another tour company to do the trip tomorrow and am looking forward to seeing what else is in this area. The lodges and the bush are the main attraction, yet I know nothing of the surrounding villages or landscape.

The sun is breaking through this afternoon and air is much warmer.

My joints and bones will not miss the dampness and cold of the past two days.

Lunch today is fish in phyllo dough. I inquire as to what type of fish and Tomsa replies that it is sole. I am not sure if she understands the question or the answer she receives from someone in kitchen. She is a lovely sweet woman that takes much pleasure in preparing our meals. We also have a side salad of goat cheese, avocado and grapefruit.

The one exception to the overall grayness of the area at this time of year is the
Impala Lily that blooms year round. I saw a few bushes in my travels.

Although there are hundreds of birds in the area,
I found them difficult to photograph.
They all seem to be quite camera shy, with the exception
of this kingfisher that spent quite of bit of time
in the trees near my veranda.

Helmeted Guinea Fowl walking the
dirt road to the right of watering hole.

Henry out of the water for an afternoon nap.

Back in the water again for entertainment time.

Henry sharing some quality time with a warthog.

During game drive tonight I did not feel well. Returned to lodge after just an hour of being out. After an extended visit to the bathroom, I went right to bed. Iwan came to check on me after a bit. He thinks I am just missing our new friends that left the lodge today! Perhaps that is so! Tomsa delivered a tray with delicious tomato soup and bread to my room. I ate and then slept until around midnight. When I awoke, I felt much better. Thankfully! I had been a bit feverish for most of the night and stomach was definitely not quite right.