|  When
one is busy, the time just seems to fly. The past
few safaris have been like a happy memory of delightful
clients, a kaleidoscope of game viewing, indelible
lasting sunsets and happy dinners around the fire.
The Moremi Game Reserve has provided
some most spectacular viewing, especially around
the Xaxanika area. A dead elephant lying in shallow
water gave us days of vultures, lions feeding in
the shallow water as well as the sight of crocodile
contesting the remains of the carcass. Big dark
glistening bodies of these huge Moremi crocodiles
would waddle out stealthily toward the rotting flesh
and begin to feed regardless of what predator was
also at the table.
A special treat was the passing
through of a breeding herd of around 60 elephants.
Parked in the shade, we watched them feeding, drinking
and playing in the water until eventually, the herd
passed through the swamps to feed on berries which
were in full season (Jackal Berries).
The Santa area remains somewhat
flooded and the birdlife there was impressive. Buffalo
made a brief appearance early one morning, harassed
by four lions that were unsuccessful in their attempts
to bring a cow down.  However,
we did find the same four lions a little later on
a dead buffalo that appeared to have died of natural
causes. They were a new pride to us and were very
shy for two reasons. Firstly, the kill was not theirs
(they happened to come across it) and secondly,
I suspect they were in unknown territory belonging
to two big maned male lions that prowled the area.
As darkness fell, they let us creep a little closer
as they continued with their free meal.!! A day
later, with incredible strength, they managed to
drag the entire carcass into long grass and hide
themselves away to feed. What swelled the excitement
and visual delight of everything, was the change
of seasons. Acacia blossoms were bursting forth
everywhere, loading the air with a heavy fragrance.
The bright new leaf of the sausage trees signaled
that spring was here. The birdsong in the early
mornings was like an invitation to live every moment
to the fullest.
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