We’re settled in at Flatdogs Lodge for three days, a very different safari experience from Kafunta, although only a few miles down river.
We’ve the Jackaberry Treehouse as accommodation, an open, two-bedroom and lounge arrangement perched four meters from the ground around three mature trees, overlooking a waterhole. In fact, our very own animal-hide.
The water hole attracts all kinds of wildlife at dawn. First to arrive just as the sun peeks over the horizon are the giraffes. They approach very cautiously, watchful for predators. Their drinking stance is their most vulnerable position, and lions know this!
Meanwhile a Goliath heron flies silently overhead, ignored by the waterhole inhabitants
Finally the whole family arrives as other animals start to make their appearance.
Sacred Ibis and Yellow-billed Stork, Vervet monkey, baboons.
All so easy to watch from our vantage point.
Baboons demonstrate their vulnerability whilst drinking, but the Hamerkop doesn’t seem worried. Meanwhile the two newest members of the giraffe family make their appearance.
Finally the elephants, for whom we learned the collective is 'parade', not herd, make their appearance while the giraffes make way for them to take their turn. There seems to be definite water-hole etiquette. The Impala and Waterbuck fit in wherever they can.
Later we’re out on a driving safari, after the worst heat of the day. Flock of Lovebirds – how can people cage these sweet birds – red-billed hornbills, crested Guineafowl. Plenty to help each other watch as we stop for a sundowner.
Then finally, on the way back to the lodge, a chance encounter with an Verreaux’s (Giant) Eagle Owl, the largest of its species in the World!
