It doesn't matter what type of animal you come across in the bush, you should always be wary of them. Although some take no notice of you, sitting next to them in a jeep, you can be sure that they are keeping a wary eye out to ensure that you are not going to encroach on their private territory. It is not just meat eating animals such as Lions and Leopards that can be dangerous to your health. Almost everything in Africa can be dangerous if not approached with care. You can catch Malaria from the mossies that you can barely see upto being trampled by a couple of tonnes of Elephant or Rhino. You might think the Hippo was harmless but they are reputed to have killed more people in the bush than lions!
The pics show some of the animals that can have a profound affect on your life if they decide to get nasty.
Elephants are extremely protective of their young and can turn nasty if you get too close.
Rhinos are protective of their area but have bad eyesight so unless they smell you, they generally go their own way.
Leopards are always looking for a kill and their coat makes for great camouflage so don't have a quick look around and think there is nothing to bother you, should you wish to get out of the vehicle to go to the loo.
Water buffalo are just palin ornery. They go where they want and woe betide anything that gets in their way.
Wart Hogs are just pigs with tusks right? Anyone see the British program Big Cats week where the Wart Hog charged the Leopard that had grabbed its kid? The cat was half way up a tree when the Hog charged it and hit the cat with such force that it was very nearly knocked off the tree. How it held on, I shall never know but I do know that I will try not to upset one of these creatures if I can help it.
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on Aug 28, 2006
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