This is a copy of our weekly email newsletter. Subscribe here to receive the newsletter.
Chimps mirror human discourse + Budongo Forest + bush to vineyards safari
I have just returned from an insightful elephant workshop in the stunning Tembe Elephant Park in northeastern KwaZulu Natal, near the Mozambique border. This popular annual event, presented by respected wildlife vet Johan Marais, attracts people from all over the globe, and I have wanted to attend for many years.
Johan shared his passion for tuskers, supplemented by interesting information and a trip down memory lane with photos of the giant elephants he has photographed over several decades. He shared that male elephants hit their tusk growth spurt at 40–50 years when they are also in their prime breeding years. Compare this to the shooting last year of super tusker Gilgil, who, at 35 years, was described by Michel Mantheakis – chairman of the Tanzanian Hunting Operators Association – as a “very old and past breeding bull elephant”.
About 40 enthusiasts were enthralled by his presentations, interspersed with game drives to seek out the Tembe elephants, which have some of the biggest remaining tusk genes. During these game drives, I saw more large-tusked bulls than I have seen elsewhere, barring Kenya’s Tsavo and Amboseli. Email the Tembe team to book your spot for next year’s elephant workshop.
You will hear more from teamAG about Tembe Elephant Park, which hosts exceptional sand forests, open woodland and wetlands. The park, owned by the local Tembe community, was established in 1983 to protect elephants migrating between Maputaland and southern Mozambique.
Meanwhile, here in the Greater Kruger Lowveld, we had our first early-season rains last night – a decent downpour accompanied by thunder and lightning. This has been a torrid dry season, so I hope with all my soul that more good rains will follow to break the drought’s vice-like grip.
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
Africa’s elusive wildcats may be a tree’s best friend. It turns out that leopards and golden cats are the secret gardeners of some of Africa’s forests. In Congo-Brazzaville and Cameroon, the nightly prowls of these predators are helping the forest grow, according to the early findings by a researcher working in the forests. How? By scaring the living daylights out of, and eating, the small animals that munch on seeds. Just the scent of a leopard nearby is enough to create a landscape of fear for these prey animals, which eat less when the cats are about. This leaves the seeds in the cats’ territories to sprout in peace. In short, the wildcats help the forest regenerate. So, next time you stroll through a lush African forest, remember: its success may, in part, be thanks to a stealthy feline gardener lurking in the shadows.
This week, we take you deep into the heart of Uganda’s Budongo Central Forest Reserve, and explore new research that reveals striking similarities between chimpanzee and human communication. Check out our stories below.
DID YOU KNOW?
We donate a portion of the revenue from every safari sold to carefully selected conservation projects that make a significant difference at ground level. YOUR safari choice does make a difference – thank you!
Story 1
https://africageographic.com/stories/budongo-central-forest-reserve/
BUDONGO FOREST
Budongo Central Forest Reserve is Uganda’s hidden gem – home to stunning biodiversity, chimpanzees & an unforgettable forest
Story 2
https://africageographic.com/stories/chimpanzee-speak-new-research-reveals-human-like-conversations/
CHIMPANZEE SPEAK
New research reveals similarities between chimpanzee and human communication, deepening our understanding of primates
TRAVEL DESK:
Are you yearning for a tropical beach escape or keen to explore the best that South Africa has to offer? Browse our safari recommendations below and let’s start planning your dream safari.
Escape, unwind & detox on the uninhabited island paradise of Mumbo Island in the middle of Lake Malawi. This heavenly tropical retreat is perfect for everyone, from adventuring families to honeymooning couples. Take to the waters of the lake and explore the cerulean world below or opt for a hammock in the shade, book and cocktail in hand. On the privacy of Mumbo Island, your time is your own – you decide!
Not sure when to go on safari? No worries, here is our month-by-month guide to help you decide when to have that next ultimate safari experience
What our safari clients say
Another week of five-star reviews from our happy clients. John and Hester spent 15 days traversing Namibia, starting their journey in Spitzkoppe and ending off at Epupa Falls. Here is what they had to say:
“Our third African safari arranged by Africa Geographic. The meticulous planning and care taken by our consultant, Stefan, came up to our expectations. Stefan kept close contact with us throughout the planning stage as well as during the journey itself. He was clearly concerned about our well-being on a memorable, if arduous, expedition to celebrate our 60th anniversary. Excellent accommodation arrangements at Doro Nawas and Serra Cafema, as well as at other venues (Okahandja Country Hotel, Spitzkoppe Tented Camp, Giardino Boutique Hotel, Khowarib Lodge, Epupa Falls Lodge and Oppi-Koppie Rest Camp). Stefan’s agent in Swakopmund, Pepi, was most friendly and helpful. In short, another excellent Africa Geographic experience, with our thanks to Stefan and Pepi for their professional and friendly support.” – John, South Africa
Want to join our safari tribe and have safari experiences like these? Get in touch, and let’s start planning your unique African safari!
WATCH: Kenya’s coastline is dotted with thick hedges of mangroves, which are crucial to biodiversity, offer carbon sequestration, reduce poverty, and build economic resilience. See how mangrove restoration projects in Mida Creek support wildlife and local communities. (05:56) Click here to watch
For more videos celebrating Africa, check out our videos here
To comment on this story: Login (or sign up) to our app here - it's a troll-free safe place 🙂.
