Just Ask Us! Why do Nightjars sit on the Road at night, and so often?
Neil responds There is much to be discussed on this matter, however the reason or reasons appear obvious once known. Nightjars, as their name would suggest are nocturnal birds who spend their days well concealed, resting up either on branches of trees or on the ground. Camouflage is key. Once night falls, they take to
Read MoreThe Greatest Love Story
Flowers. Symbols of love, of hope and joy, perhaps of prosperity. Given as gifts for forgiveness, for admiration, adoration, for death and consolation. Their perfume, an intoxicating vapour that excites, makes giddy, sometimes disgusts and even cause you to faint. They hold much power and symbolism to us, but their hidden strength tells of a
Read MoreJust Ask Us! Why do only some birds migrate, and do they eat when migrating, on route?
Colin responds. Migration is usually a seasonal movement from an area entering a colder, leaner time (winter) to an area that is warmer and where food is still readily available. This covers two important factors conducive to breeding: a suitable climate and access to abundant energy resources. Birds that remain in the former area most
Read MoreWorld Rhino Day
Conservation is an emotional sport. You win some, you lose some but you cannot give up the game. It’s not a professional sport at that, there is certainly very little funding available for the incumbent players and most go unnoticed, the mere minnows that are overshadowed by the big names. It makes for a fantastic
Read MoreJust Ask Us! We often see Wildebeest and Zebra together, and there are many more Zebra on the Reserve, why?
Josphat Responds. When it comes to wildlife survival is of utmost importance. If animals are ‘together’ it means many senses are put to use to protect themselves. Zebras have got good eyesight whilst wildebeest have a good sense of hearing, coupled with eyesight. Both species are grazers and prefer open plains. Feeding together is beneficial
Read MoreBee-ware!
I have never been one for surprises, good or bad. A proverbial planner with a backup plan for every plan including the backups suits me far better. However, when one bears witness to the unexpected, that certainly gets me going. There is no doubt that we would rather be out in nature than
Read MoreJust Ask Us! Why are some areas burnt and others not, especially where a road is a dividing line?
Colin Responds Wildfires start naturally in our area, especially at the onset of the rainy season before any substantial new growth has sprouted and while it is still extremely dry. Often enough, a storm with a huge electrical element and very little rain occurs, and a lightning strike sets the parched veld alight as
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