Web Report by Derek Oxley
We all arrived at Potokwane camp, Pilanesberg, on Friday afternoon. After setting up our tents, we headed to the education center to write our grasses test. Once we had completed that, we had a talk about the weekend’s program.
On Saturday, we had lectures in the morning. In the afternoon, we had to observe animals on a 3-hour Game drive. It gave the Wetland and Grassland groups time to observe animal behavior. Fun was had by all.
Sunday was the highlight of the weekend for everyone. We woke up at 04h30 and drove to Malatse Hide at 05h30. During our hike, we spotted various animals (elephant, black rhino, impala, kudu, zebra, hippo). We were tested on the knowledge we had learned so far.
We all learned so much. Our guides’ knowledge was impressive. Wetlands and Grassland groups came together and sat under a tree for refreshments. Our lecturer, Ulrich Oberprieler, was very knowledgeable, explaining what the walking animals do. It was hot. We were watching two male adult bull elephants in the distance.
When we got back to the hide, we were debriefed again. We are all looking forward to the rest of the course. On Friday morning, I saw a serval during a game drive—my first time seeing one in person. I wanted to share this great sighting with everyone. Looking forward to the rest of the course.
ED’s Note: Thanks Derek for this comprehensive report on the mammals weekend.