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Mountains of the Moon + parent like a Wahlberg’s eagle
Apparently we are pouring $billions into humanoid bots, gene-editing therapies, and brain implants to ‘improve’ our lives. At the same time we are pillaging the planet that sustains us. What could possibly go wrong?
Meanwhile, at ground level in Africa, our Photographer of the Year 2023 winners witnessed a rather gritty incident during their safari in Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana. We came across a stressed giraffe wandering around, after-birth dangling. A party of jackals were tailing her, hoping to snack on that juicy morsel. Having eaten her newborn shortly after it dropped, they were intent on cleaning up. We were all contemplative after witnessing this dramatic demonstration of natural processes. How different that was to the sanitised, packaged world our species is intent on creating, at the exclusion of real life.
Be the change you want to see in the world. Never give up
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
Life is tough for rodents in Africa. When they’re not dying out due to habitat loss or poisoning, they’re dodging predators of all shapes and sizes, bearing teeth, claws, beaks and thumbs. To survive as a rat in Africa, one must grow a thick skin. One must innovate: just like the African crested rat, found in East Africa.
Did you know that the crested rat coats its fur in a poison so lethal it can fell an elephant, to protect itself from predators? The rat chews on the toxic poison arrow tree and transfers the toxins onto its fur. The poison then causes distress, or even sudden death, in its attackers. The rat’s other adaptations include a large stomach to detoxify poison, tough skin and a reinforced skull.
May you experience prosperity and opportunity in 2024 – and may you also develop a thick skin, strong stomach and hard head for any toothy challenges that come your way.
This week, don’t miss our story on Rwenzori Mountains for travel inspiration, and read about the fascinating parenting style of the Wahlberg’s eagle – all below.
Story 1
https://africageographic.com/stories/rwenzori-mountains-national-park/
MOUNTAINS OF THE MOON
Rwenzori Mountains NP’s towering peaks & other-worldly flora beckons travellers to embark on a life-altering journey
Story 2
https://africageographic.com/stories/parenting-wahlbergs-eagle-style/
WAHLBERG’S EAGLE
Why does the Wahlberg’s eagle lay only one egg? The parenting style of these eagles is a story your financial broker will enjoy
TRAVEL DESK:
Longing for a luxurious getaway in Kenya? If this safari has you itching to travel, get in touch, and let us craft your ideal safari. Our travel experts can’t wait to spoil you!
Maasai Mara Champagne safari – 6 days – from US$7,115pps
Luxury awaits on this carefully curated safari, designed to complement the magnificence of the vast Maasai Mara plains. Complete with a private vehicle, picnics galore, and a hot-air balloon flight with a Champagne breakfast, this safari will impress even the most discerning traveller. Plus, this safari is conducted from the comfort of the glamorous Angama Mara, perched on the edge of an escarpment, overlooking the ‘Out of Africa’ scenery below. What are you waiting for?
Safari trip report – Birding in Madagascar
Colleen Krog went on a birding safari with us to Andasibe-Mantadia in Madagascar. Thank you for your 5-star review, Colleen! Here is what Colleen had to say about her experience:
“Based at Feon’y Ala, I was able to explore Andasibe-Mantadia thoroughly over a couple of days. This was the first time I did a birding trip like this – as I am usually an occasional birder.
Our guides, Tojo and Maurice, were really excellent and made all the difference. I am sure they often guide more experienced birders and photographers. But I am a novice, and really enjoyed the trip. They really went out of their way to show me incredible species – and went above and beyond! It really made all the difference. They were on a mission to find every bird that is found in the area. We walked plenty and bashed through dense forest. It was so much fun!”
Interested in travelling with AG? Plan your safari with us here
WATCH: Fancy a pick-me-up? Take a breather and enjoy a moment of Kruger lion cubs exploring, tumbling, huddling and roughhousing as they await the return of their grown ups. (02:54) Click here to watch
For more videos celebrating Africa, check out our videos here
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