It quickly became apparent that we would not feel
"successful" in our wildlife search unless we walked away with having
seen a lion. Looking through the sightings book we could see a number of
entries over the past few days of others who boasted seeing 2, 5 or even 10
lions. Frantically searching every shady tree and waterhole, we were always on
the lookout for some lion cubs taking cover from the midday sun. Over time we
learnt that the lions are very hard to spot during the daytime (taking cover
from the heat) and that morning would make for better chances.
Early this morning we set out to the Goas waterhole in
time for sunrise and were rewarded with 16 lions lounging in the crisp cool
air. While a few of the olders lions sat peacefully, the younger cubs were
tumbling over one another, play-fighting with their long fangs bared for all to
fear. Half an hour later, the lions slowly picked up and started strolling
towards the gravel road. Driving ahead to place ourselves in their path, we stopped
and waited. With our windows down, we froze as they proudly walked around our
car, looking up at us as they passed by.
Calvin & Sharon
(to be
continued)
