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Moremi glamping + best pics + tiger farming + Chobe developments
So we all SURVIVED one overpaid Hollywood narcissist (OHN) bitch-slapping another OHN on stage while a coterie of OHN’s gawked and then applauded. Moving on swiftly.
The Botswana government is trying to force-feed its good people a very bitter lemon. Our third story below is a classic case of political manoeuvring at the cost of the environment and an already established economy. That the Batswana need FAR MORE direct involvement in the tourism industry is not in doubt – that has to happen. But killing the goose that lays the golden eggs is short-sighted and naive. Time will reveal the shady dealings and identity of the predetermined beneficiaries. Walks away shaking his head …
And finally, from the maladroit to the RIDICULOUS, there is this. Lab-grown lion and tiger meat for sale. Laugh or cry – your choice
Keep the passion
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
The mornings have turned crisp and the leaves are yellowing here in a fresh Autumn Johannesburg. To stay warm, I’m turning my attention to toastier destinations. This week we explore the wonders of a mobile glamping safari in Moremi Game Reserve – an AG expedition that’s not to be missed. Check out our second story.
The Week 9 entrants to Photographer of the Year have also been out and about in the African sun – and they’ve brought back incredible, award-worthy images. This week’s gallery is filled with rare species, otherworldly treescapes, and some interesting creatures in some, ahem, passionate positions. Check these out below.
Our third story focuses on Botswana’s dubious call for tenders for 8 new lodges in Chobe NP. We’re also delving into the stark reality of South Africa’s big-cat farming industry. Illegal tiger and lion breeding is still rampant in the country, despite Barbara Creecy announcing plans for a complete ban on the captive-lion industry. See how this illegal trade threatens wild populations of these animals across the world in our final story below.
Happy indulging in Africa to you all!
From our Scientific Editor – Jamie Paterson
It is no secret that our relationship with alcohol goes back a very long way. As far back as there have been people, they have been finding new and inventive ways to ferment things. In many countries, indulgence in the Bacchanalian delights has translated into an enormous public health concern.
But did you know that this love of liquor may well link to our evolutionary history? The theory is (appropriately) called the “drunken monkey” hypothesis and suggests that the attraction has its roots in early dietary requirements. Scientists recently proved that spider monkeys in Panama prefer fruits with a higher ethanol content – quite possibly because they can metabolize the alcohol and harness additional calories. So, in theory, people have a penchant for booze because our early, fruit-eating ancestors derived nutritional rewards from it. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your perspective), we are no longer limited to the 2% alcohol content of slightly “off” fruit, hence people making monkeys of themselves …
Story 1
BEST PHOTOS
https://africageographic.com/stories/photographer-of-the-year-2022-weekly-selection-week-9/
Award-worthy images of the African continent in our Week 9 selection of Photographer of the Year shots. Get your entries in now!
Story 2
MOREMI MAGIC
https://africageographic.com/stories/moremi-bucket-list-mobile-safari/
Explore Moremi on a mobile glamping safari with expert guides: 5 spots open in AG’s May expedition
Story 3
NEW CHOBE DEVELOPMENTS
https://africageographic.com/stories/botswana-to-develop-8-new-lodges-on-chobe-riverfront/
Botswana’s plans for eight new lodges in Chobe NP, despite recommendations and regulations against developments, have angered environmentalists
Story 4
TIGER FARMING
https://africageographic.com/stories/big-cat-farming-and-illegal-tiger-trade-in-south-africa/
South Africa’s illegal tiger trade and farming of other big cats threaten the wild populations of these animals across the world
TRAVEL DESK UPDATES:
Come get it while it’s still warm!
A last-minute cancellation means that we can offer a VERY SPECIAL price for this dream glamping safari in late May. Six days in intoxicating Khwai and Moremi for US$2,380 per person is a steal (5 places available). There is also one seat left for a late April departure for US$2,215. Fully-catered mobile safaris that will reboot your life. For further info also refer to our story above.
And, for the pursuit of culinary delights and Big 5 safari heaven, there is this: Bush & beach, Pinotage to predators – South Africa – 12 days
WATCH: South Africa’s vervet monkeys survive in urban spaces (03:31). Click here to watch
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