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Rise of Liwonde + more phenomenal images
So our story last week about Namibia’s free-roaming horses caused quite a stir. There is usually no straight line solution to complex issues like this, and well-meaning people often stray into angry troll mode when expressing their fears and hopes. These horses are not native to Namibia, and some argue that they should be treated like any other introduced species – culled or relocated to privately-owned land – to preserve the natural balance. Some argue that we should leave nature to sort this out. If hyenas and other predators kill all of the horses then that’s nature’s way of deciding what’s best. Others argue that we should cull or relocate naturally-occurring species to protect this introduced species. The Namibian authorities have in the past culled hyenas that were killing the horses – an unusual move for a conservation authority.
Like most situations where a charismatic species is involved, public sentiment plays a role. Yet again we have conflicting agendas slugging it out, and conservation authorities are caught in the crossfire. There is no solution that will satisfy everyone. I trust the authorities and conservationists at ground level to plot the course – as uncomfortable as that may be for many.
Keep the passion
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
TRAVEL DESK UPDATES:
This week we feature two guided safaris. From searching for big cats in the Sabi Sands to exploring all that Namibia has to offer, teamAG is ready and waiting to make your safari dreams a reality.
Sabi Sands big cat safari with Jamie Paterson – 6 days / 5nights – from ZAR 58,815 pps
Join our scientific editor & NatGeo Wild guide Jamie Paterson for a limited-offer safari in the Sabi Sands. With a maximum of just 6 guests and exclusive use of Jaci’s Sabi House, this intimate trip is designed to make the most of this big cat paradise. Track down lions or spend hours getting to know an individual leopard as Jamie offers her insights into the wonders of her old stomping ground.
Namibia safari – Sossusvlei to Etosha – 13 days/ 12nights – from N$ 112,000 (Namibian Dollars) pps
Experience the best of Namibia, from the red dunes of Sossusvlei and the iconic wildlife of Etosha to the rock art of Twyfelfontein and the country’s adventure capital – Walvis Bay. Over 13 days, your private guide will reveal the majesty of Namibia, its phenomenal wildlife and compelling historical and cultural diversity.
From our Scientific Editor – Jamie Paterson
In the past three years of writing for Africa Geographic, I’ve probably found every possible permutation of praise for the many extraordinary parks and reserves on our beautiful continent. However, some stand out in my mind more than others – they stay with me long after they have been published. Our first story below looks at one such destination: Liwonde National Park in Malawi.
We so often forget to celebrate conservation successes, but the incredible journey of Liwonde should be lauded. Thanks to the involvement of African Parks, the park has been pulled from the brink of destruction and catapulted towards a future as an exceptional safari destination. The message of hope that comes from its transformation cannot be understated.
And then, did you know that scientists have discovered a new species of jellyfish off the coasts of South Africa? Though my jellyfish ID skills are limited, I’m fairly certain that the Chrysaora agulhensis features in this week’s Photographer of the Year gallery. How cool is that? Other gallery stars include several examples of the eternal battles of predator and prey, Rikki-Tikki-Tavi and a profoundly soggy owl. This week has been one of my favourite galleries so far!
Story 1
https://africageographic.com/stories/liwonde-national-park/
LIWONDE, MALAWI
Liwonde National Park is an exceptional Big 5 safari destination, revived from the brink & now a key protected area in Malawi
Story 2
https://africageographic.com/stories/photographer-of-the-year-2023-weekly-selection-week-7/
STUNNING SNAPSHOTS
Our Photographer of the Year 2023 entries for Week 7 are, as always, phenomenal! Enter for a chance to win your share of US$10,000 and a Botswana safari
Pangolin news
Read about the incredible story of Sujaa, a white-bellied pangolin pup, rescued by a team of dedicated conservations who moved her some 300km through a war zone. To support the vital work done by the African Pangolin Working Group, visit their page on our app and donate to them directly.
WATCH: This large male lion is stranded on a rock in the Olifants River (Greater Kruger, South Africa) and attacked by hippos (01:18). Click here to watch
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