Natural Track Safaris

Papyrus reeds

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Sep 2013 08:50:00 +0000

This tall leafless aquatic plant can grow 4-5m. if forms a grass-like dump of triangular green stem that rise up from thick woody plant greenish brown flower clusters eventually appears at the end of the rays giving ways to brown nut like fruits. The feather duster flowering heads make ideal nesting site for many social of birds. As in most sedge pollination is wind, not insects and the mature fruits after release are distributed by water. Papyrus ranges from subtropical to tropical desert to wet forest tolerating annual temperatures of 20^oc and a ph of 6.0 to 8.5. Papyrus flowers in late summer and project full sun to partly shady conditions.

Papyrus reeds is being used for many purpose must famously for making papyrus paper mats, baskets and decoration as it is nearly extinct in their native habitat where in ancient time it was widely cultivated. The pith of the young shoot was eaten both cooked and raw. Its woody root made bowls and other utensils and was burned for fuel. Men acting papyrus to build simple boats in some country to sail cloth and sandals. The harvesting of papyrus reeds is not of the easy it is the matter of risking life because of the swamp it is the natural habitat for any life organism such as birds, fish, crocodiles, snakes frogs, mosquitoes and many others. Due to this however this work does may be danger himself and at long last losses life.

How to harvest

First it requires sharp tools such as Panga and Knives for cutting. The swamp can be at shallow or deep. If deep someone has to dive into the water to cut the papyrus plant just close to the roots or uproot it out if possible. After getting from the swamp they are placed in a dry sun between two to three day so as to facilitate better. They are split into several pieces depending on its use.

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THE MORINGA PLANT.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 27 Aug 2013 11:26:00 +0000

The Moringa tree is grown mainly in semi-arid tropical and subtropical areas, corresponding in dry, sandy soil; it tolerates poor soil, including coastal areas. It is a fast growing drought resistant tree. Moringa is grown in home gardens and as living fences and where it is commonly sold in local markets. It is commonly grown for its leaves which are used in soup.
Cultivation
Moringa is propagated by planting 1-2m long limbs cutting. The plant starts bearing pods 6-8 months after planting but regular bearing cornimence after the second year. Continuing for several years. It can also be propagated by seed which are planted on below the surface and can be germinated year round in well draining soil.

As with all plant optimum cultivation depends on producing the right environment for the plant and thus they do not tolerate freeze or frost. Morning is particularly suitable for dry regions as it can be grown using rain water without expensive irrigation techniques.

Roots

The roots are shredded and used as a condiment and potentially having paralyzing properties. Many parts of the moringa are edible. Regional uses of moringa as food vary widely and includes;

- the immature seed pods called drumsticks

- nature seeds

- the leaves

- oil pressed from the mature seeds.

- Roots

In some region, the seed pods are commonly eaten while in others, the leaves are the most commonly used part of the plant. The flowers are edible when cooked and are said to taste like mushrooms. The bark, sap roots seed oil and flowers are used in traditional medicine in several places.

Leaves

The leaves are the most nutritious part of the plant being a significant source of B vitamins, vitamin C provitamin as beta carotene, vitamin k and protein among others essential nutrients.

The leaves are cooked and used like spinach. In addition to being used fresh as a substitute for spinach its leaves are commonly dried and crushed into a powder used in soups and sources.

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THE FISH.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 Aug 2013 07:44:00 +0000

Fish use a variety of low poached sound to convey message each other. They moan gnash their teeth. However, fish do not have vocal chords. They use other parts of their bodies to make noises, such as vibrating muscles against their bladder.

Fish can form schools containing millions of fish. They use hold their place in the school. The lateral line is a raw of pores running along the fish sides from head to tail. Special hairs in the pores sense changes in water pressure from the movement of other fish or predators. Since a fish jaw, is not attached to its skull, many fishes can shoot their mouths forward like a spring to catch stared prey.

Fish have sleep like periods where they have lowered response to stimuli, slowed physical activity and reduced metabolism but they do not share the same changes in brain waves as human being do when they sleep.

Some fish such as herbivore often lack jaw teeth but have tooth like grinding mills in their throat called pharyngeal teeth most fish have taste buds all over their body. Most fish can in color and use colors to camouflage themselves or defend themselves and their territory. Most fish have the best possible eyesight for their habitat and can most certainly see you peering in a fish pond.

A fish does not add new scales as it grows, but the scale it has increase in size. In this way, growth ring are formed and the ring reveal the age of a fish.

Fish that have thin fins with a split tail indicate that they move very quickly or many need them to cover great distances. On the other hand fish that live among rocks and reefs near the ocean floor have broad lateral fin and large tails.

A fish can draw in water like human, fish need oxygen so if there isn’t enough oxygen in the water they will suffocate . the fish in the middle of a school, controls the school. The fish on the outside are guided by those in the middle. Only bony fish can swim in highly coordinated groups.

Fish would suffocate if they try to chew because chewing would interfere with water passing over their gills.

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Tale of African Snakes - affirm the traditional dilemmas

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 19 Aug 2013 06:56:00 +0000

Many people are scared of snakes and to many, a snake is a snake, all are dangerous and deserve death. However, most snake species are completely harmless! In fact, about 80% of all snakes’ species in the world are non-venomous and perform important ecological functions as controllers of rodent- pest populations. Thus knowing how to identify snakes is a vital part of of our lives and conservation education

The wilds of Africa are often associated with snakes and rightly so, but, unfortunately, usually for the wrong reasons. Africa is well known amongst herpetologists and snake lovers for the interesting variety of species of which some are unfortunately highly priced in the pet trade.

Although many of the African snakes’ species are completely harmless to humans, this region also hold some of the worlds most deadly snakes. The Black and Green Mamba, Puff Adder, Cobra, Boomsland, and Saw-scaled Vipers are some of the worlds most deadly snakes and deserve a great deal of respect.

In east Africa, there are close to 200 species of snakes. Of these 200, 47 are considered dangerous to humans, 45 are venomous and two are large constrictors (two species of pythons very similar in appearance). Of the 47 dangerous species mentioned, 18 species are known to have killed people.

Kenya is home to several of the most dangerous species for example, the Puff Adder (Bitis arietans), Black-necked Spitting cobra (Naja nigricollis) and Black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis). However, Kenya is also home to many harmless species that feed on rats and mice that consume maize, millet and rice, the stable diet of the people of Kenya.

The simplest way of describing snakes is whether a snake is Harmless, Mildly Venomous or Dangerous. Some snakes have no venom and are completely harmless like the Brown House Snake. Others like large pythons may be non-venomous but are still considered dangerous.

Sand snakes (genus Psammphis) are considered mildly venomous. This means that the venom is strong enough to subdue or kill its prey, like a small lizard, but not strong enough to kill an adult human. However, one should still be careful around these fast moving serpents. Young children or adults that have allergic reactions could suffer severe symptoms from the bite of a sand snake!

In general, African is home to an abundance of different snake species. From its deserts to savannahs, the African landscape is home to an enormous variety of extremely beautiful and potentially dangerous snakes. Below are some of the most popular snake classification;

Colubridae / Colubrids – A Colubrid is a snake that is a member of the Colubridae family. It is a broad classification of snakes that includes well over half of all snake species on earth. While most colubrids are non-venomous (or have venom that isn't known to be harmful to humans) and are normally harmless, a few groups, such as genus Boiga, Coluber and Rhabdophis, can produce medically significant bites. In addition, the Boomslang and African Twig Snake have both caused human fatalities.The venom-injecting fangs associated with venomous colubrids are almost always in the back of the mouth, compared to vipers and elapids. In North America, all snake species in the colubridae family are generally harmless to humans. Please note: This list does not currently include sub-species.

Elapidae/ Elapids (Venomous) – The cobra family is thought to have evolved from Colubrid snakes and many appear very similar in appearance with long, slender bodies and large scales (plates) on the head. They differ in having more advanced venom delivery systems than the venomous Colubrids. Elapids have fangs that are "effectively tubular" in that the fangs contain grooves that are enclosed by an infolding of the edges. The fangs are in the front of the mouth rather than the rear as is seen in venomous Colubrids. The Elapidae contains some of the world's most dangerous snakes including cobras (Naja), mambas (Dendroaspis) and sea snakes (Hydophinae and Laticaudinae). Elapids are found worldwide and in Ausralia is the predominant family. In North America, three species of elapids are found, two species of coral snakes and one sea snake. The coral snakes are relatively small snakes that spend most of their time underground. Their primary food is other snakes. Despite their small size and small fangs, their venom is extremely toxic.

Viperidae / Vipers (Venomous) – The vipers are generally considered to be the most advanced family of snakes since they possess a very sophisticated venom delivery system. Large tubular fangs are placed in the front of the mouth and they are hinged, allowing them to be folded back when not in use. Their heads are covered with numerous small scales and their eyes have vertically eliptical pupils.

What to do when you meet a snake?

First of all, except for the slow-snakes like puff adders, you will generally see a snake swiftly pass by you, not even enough time to take a photo. That being a general rule, always leave snakes alone, don’t touch them unless you are a professional snake handler. Like all wildlife, they deserve their respect and distance from our interference. Except for cases where human-pet life is in danger, leave them alone, unless it is absolutely necessary to have them moved.

Have a wonderful day and enjoy these earths’ beautiful creatures.

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Balsa wood plant.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 29 Jul 2013 10:23:00 +0000

It is a member of the mallow family but is now found in many other countries. It groups extremely rapid and the speed of growth accounts for the lightness of the wood. Balsa wood has a lower density than cork. The trees generally do not live beyond 30 to 40years.

The large flowers open in the late afternoon and remain open overnight. Each may contain a pool of nectar up to 1 inch deep. It was once thought that the main pollinators were bats. The name balsa comes from the Spanish word for boat.

Users

Balsa lumber is very soft with a course open grain. The density of dry balsa wood ranges from 40 – 300 kg/m³ with a typical of about 160 kg/^m3. The light weight of wood cells that contain water. After the water is driven off in an extended drying process for two weeks, the large surface area of the resulting holes gives strength. Unlike dry rotted wood the surface is made of the usual strong cellulose mix.

As it is low density but high in strength balsa is a very popular material to use when making light, stiff structures in model bridge tests, model buildings and for the construction of model aircraft. Balsa is used to make wooden crack baits for fishing. Sticks of balsa can be used to make crude dip pens for calligraphy and can be useful when one needs a specific nib width or structure when one does not have such mestal nibs immediately available.

Balsa wood is often used as a core material in composites for example the blade of many wind turbines are made partially of balsa. In table tennis paddles, a balsa layer of typically sandwiched between two pieces of thin plywood. Balsa is also used in laminates with glass reinforced plastics for making high quality balsa surfboards and the desks and topsides of many types of boats especially pleasures craft under 30m in length.

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AFRICAN FISH –EAGLE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 18 Jul 2013 06:51:00 +0000

The African fish eagle is a proficient hunter, with live fish accounting for the bulk of its diet. It typically hunts from a huge perch on water side tree, where it can watch for moving close to the water’s surface once prey is sighted low over the water and at the critical moment throws both feet forward to seize hold of its target with powerful talons.

The African fish eagles rarely spend more than ten minutes per day actively hunting. Aside from fish, this efficient raptor will also take the young of water such as lesser flamingoes in Lake Baringo.

Adult African fish eagles are normally seen in pairs but on large productive lakes nests and roosts may be only a few hundred meters apart and many birds can be found together in one area. The stick nests are usually built in a tree close by water and are used year after growing in size over time with the addition of needs papyrus reads bulrushes and sometimes weaver nest.

Calling on duet, whilst perched or soaring, is an integral part of breading display and is combined with dramatic aerial dives and falls with pairs integrals in mid air. The female normally lays one to three eggs in the nest which are incubated for around 44 days before hatching.

Although in captivity African fish eagles can live for more than 40 yrs in the wild those that are fortunate to survive the first year have an estimated life expectancy of 12 to 24 years.

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ALOE VERA

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 18 Jul 2013 06:37:00 +0000

Aloe Vera is one of about 250 species of aloes. The aloes are numbers of the lily family (liliaceous) and are relatives of such common as tulips.

Aloe Vera is a leafy succulent that a rosette fashion on hot well drained soils. The leaves are spotted when young but take on a uniform light green color with age. They can reach 2 feet in length and are edged soft spines. Older plants produce an 18 inch long stalk from the centre of the rosette that is topped with nodding cylindrical yellow flower about one inch long.

It is bitter shiny and can be collected as an exudate from cut leaves or squeezed from the pulp of the leaves. Leaves from all aloes have long been credited with healing properties but the especially inculent aloe Vera is valued most.

In the past leaves were sliced and laid on the skin to relieve itching and to heal burns, minor burns, wrinkles, insect bites, skin irritation, cuts and scratches. Consumer may be familiar with aloe Vera because extract of its sap are found in my hand lotion and other skin care products.

Aloe Vera makes a sturdy long lived house plant as it is given plenty of sunlight and is not over watered. Many home gardeners grow it on a window sill so the sap is ready available.

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POKOT COMMUNITY

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 10 Jul 2013 11:41:00 +0000

Pokot is the sub- tribe to Kalenjin community where they are found in the northern part of the country. Some are likely inhabited at Loruk, is not far from Kampi ya samaki trading centre in lake baringo.They are nomads, they move from one point to another in search of pasture and water.

LEADERSHIP

They are control by council of elders; they have well respected and honest old men who are appointed by the community so as to settled out dispute which might a raised in the society. They have rain makers who can tell the seasons of rain and drought.

HUTS

They have simple huts made from Grass, Mud, Cow dung and small branches

Only married women are responsible for building the huts, these houses are short with small windows and an open entrance. The roof is attached with grass while the walls are smired with cow dung. They make windows for ventilation and the doors are kept short to facilitate security and respect- when one enters has to bend to the entire entrances.

These houses are multiple for several wives because it is a taboo for this community to marry many wives. Young girls sleep together with their parents whiles the older ones in a different hut. Boys are the men of tomorrow and they are force to sleep outside known as “Aperit” so as to safe guard the homestead.

All livestock have different bomas only for the young ones have enclosed hut to protect them against rainfall and strong heat. They burn cow dung and other materials at night within their compound to act as mosquito’s repellant.

FOOD

The main stable food is milk, meat, wild fruit and grains. Milk is only for young children. They slaughter animals occasionally and collect blood so as to mix with milk for the Moran .Meat is not eaten randomly but there are specific parts women or men are not suppose to consume. For example front hide legs are for women while back hide legs for men. Women are warned not to eat the tongue because they believed they will speak a lot.

In the wild there are same special food grains just like beans that needs long boiling example”Sirich”.This is done during drought time and most disadvantage it has bitter taste.

CIRCUMCISSION

It is an important function to this community where teenage boys and girls underwent this practice. It is only when the food plenty, Boys ands girls are circumcised at the same time but different venues. After a month later they are allowed to join the rest community. They are ready to marry.

MARRIAGE

It is a crucial event which needs organization from parents of both partners. The negotiations of wealth are made strictly where 40 goats, 20 sheeps, 10 cows and 7camels are enough payment for search function. During this period animals are slaughter and many ceremonies are done such as dancing, drinking and singing. Animal blood, cow dung and soft clay are necessary to make “sabana” (mixers is onto their heads both married lady and the man) to recognize them and given honor by the rest people.

BEDDINGS

They still used skin as matrees.the beds are constructed one meter above the surface to avoid flooding and provide security against snakes and dangerous insects.

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Ostrich

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 09 Jul 2013 08:01:00 +0000

The ostrich is flightless bird that actually native in the country. It is the largest living bird and has managed to generate a lot of curiosity among people due to its large body size and inability to fly.

The ostrich belongs to the ratite family of bird. The male ostrich is called a rooster while a female ostrich is called a hen. The ostrich’s eye measures almost two inches across which makes it the largest eye of land animal. The ostrich is the largest and heaviest living bird in the world.

The bird is flightless bird for many reasons. 1^st it has small and loose feathers and does not have a breast bone which is common to most birds. An ostrich can go onto life for almost fifty years.

An ostrich habitat varies and though they were initially found in the savannah region and certain parts in the country. Female ostriches have the uncanny ability to recognize her own eggs, even if they are mixed with those of other female ostrich in their communal nest.

An ostrich hen can lay somewhere between forty to hundred eggs in a year. One ostrich egg weighs 1.6kg or 1600 grams, which is equivalent to the weight of about twenty four chicken eggs and takes two hours to hard boil. An ostrich egg hatches in forty two days. Ostriches are very powerful birds much so that a single kick to a predator like a lion, dogs or hyena could prove to be fatal.

Ostrich can run at a pace of up to 70 km/h. thus, they can outrun most land predators such as lions, leopards and hyenas. A fully grown ostrich has one of the strongest and most advanced immune systems known to mankind. Despite being a flightless bird, ostrich have wings which serve much other purpose. Ostrich hold their wings out to help them maintain their balance when they run, which specially comes in handy of the suddenly change direction while the main purpose of their wings is to display them along with their tail feathers during courtship. To show dominance an ostrich holds its head up high and lifts its wings and its tail feathers. To show submission, the head, wings and tail drop down.

When an ostrich senses a danger and cannot run away, it flops to the ground and remains still with its head and neck flat on the ground in front of it. As the head and neck are light colored, they seem to blend with the soil which makes it look like the ostrich has buried its head in the sand. Ostrich meat resembles beef in its appearance and is cooked in a similar manner as the beef. This meat is very low in cholesterol and is almost free of fat. Ostriches are omnivores and they eat whatever is available in their habitat at different times of the year, they mostly eat plants, especially the roots, seeds and leaves. They enjoy munching on insects like locusts and small animals like lizards.

They get adequate amount of water from plants they eat. Although they drink water if they reach a pond or water holes. They prefer to live in groups which help them to keep predators at bay. Due their long necks and keen vision, they can see long distances and from a distance. The ostrich has only two toes on each foot, which helps to give it more speed while running.

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SNAKES.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 09 Jul 2013 06:21:00 +0000

There are many species of snakes in the world. The enormous ones like the python, which can swallow animals as large as a whole gazelle. Snakes can be found in all types of habitat, while some climb trees, others live under ground, and still others found in lake water and even sea water.

Snakes occur in a large variety of colors ranging from dull to brilliant with striking pattern. Snake that have dull coloring use it for camouflaged, while those which are brightly colored are usually poisonous. They use their bright color to warn predators to stay off. Some non poisonous snakes mimic the pattern and bright colors of poisonous snakes to fool predators.

Snakes are cold blooded, which means they do not have the ability of generating adequate amount of heat in order to keep their body temperature at a constant level. Instead they are dependance on heat from their surroundings and the sun to control the temperatures of their body. This is the reasons most of snakes are found in humid and warm climes of tropical regions.

Snake are reptiles with an elongated body that is flexible and limbless. A snake body frame is dependent on the habitat they live in. for example, snakes that burrow underground have a tendency of being more compact whereas the type that live in trees tend to be slender and long equipped with a prehensile tail which they use to grasp branches while the body of aquatic snakes is generally flattened.

Snakes do not have eyelids; a transparent scale protects their eyes. They are deaf to airborne sounds and they hear by picking up vibrations through their jawbones. The part of the body in direct contact with the ground have incredible sensitive hearing which enables a snake to sense and detect the position of prey.

Snakes use their forked tongue to smell. The tongue gathers particles that are airborne which it then passes to a specialized organ located on the roof of the snake’s mouth that gives a directional sense of smell and predators simultaneously. To determine the presence of prey or predators in the local environment, the snakes keep their tongue constantly its motion.

A venomous snake usually has broader head that bulges out behind its eyes where it stores its venom. All snakes are purely carnivorous. As they bit or chew their food to pieces they have to swallow the prey. Snakes have more teeth to bite and grip their prey securely. Snakes have a unique ability of swallowing their prey times larger than their mouth, they can do this because of the special tendons.

Snakes have the ability of surviving without food for many days at a stretch after having a filling meal. This is because they have a slow rate of metabolism. The snake’s heart is able to move around its body. This adjustment protects the heart when large prey passes through the esophagus.

A snake becomes dominant after eating while digestion takes place. Digestion of snake is intensive activity. Therefore if disturbed the snake’s digestive enzymes dissolve and absorb everything but the prey hair and claws which are eliminated it’s excreted.

Snakes are eaten by communal tribes, snakes soup is considered good to warm up the consumer’s body during cold weather. Snakes blood is mixed with liquid to improve its taste. Snakes shed their skin regularly while they grow a process called molting. They shed their skin by rubbing their head against something rough and hard, resulting in the skin peeling of from their heads enabling them to crawl out, turning the skin inside out. Older snakes may shed only twice a year while the younger may shed up to four times a year.

Snake usually mate in colder climate. Male snake try to attract attention of a female snake by fighting with other male snakes who also want the same female snakes only to win the fight. Female give birth to baby snakes in about 2 months, they abandon the eggs shortly after laying them. Some snakes retain the eggs within their bodies until they are ready to hatch. These babies are born covered with a thin membrane.

The baby uses an egg tooth to rip off membrane and crawl free.

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TRADITIONAL BEE-HIVE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 08 Jul 2013 08:37:00 +0000

A long the valley of the Tugen hills where Tugen community live, which are the sub-tribe of kalenjin enrolled themselves in bee keeping by use of traditional bee-hive

STRUCTURE

It is a simple log cut out from a specific trunk of tree, then split into two equal parts where the inner parts are chopped to make a hollow sample. The parts are smoothen regularly so as to allow further finishing. Blood from the Zebu male cattle plus the cow dug are smired to the inner parts to enhance attraction of the bees into the bee hive .After all these have been accomplished the bee hive is kept between two to three days to dry up completely.

RITUALS

The old men from the same age mates just between the age of sixty and seventy years are called upon to do a ritual sacrifices where a white he goat is slaughtered as a way of blessing the owner of the bee hive to get the best honey and as well enabling the bees not to be so wild when harvesting honey

The bee hive is ready to be put in place. It is taken to a big acacia tree close to a water source then it is hung in one of the branches where it will be possible to stand when harvesting honey.

After sometimes between two to three weeks the bees are seen moving in and out, some collecting nectars while others are responsible of securing the bee hive. Usually the bees makes the honey in the upper inner half bee hive while they settled in the lower half part .The honey is made in bundles depending on the size of the bee hive; The bigger the hive the more the honey bundle.

HONEY HARVEST

The honey is harvested after three months time. Traditionally the honey is harvested in two ways; the first method the honey is harvested by use of smoke from a burned dry wood. The young men climb up the tree with a burning wood at night with an interest of harvesting honey from the bee hive. He also carry with him a skin bag (tokol) where honey is kept. The chopping sticks is another requirement for opening the bee hive and cutting the honey bundles. The second method; this is done during the day where no equipment is used to chase the bees a way, only one smire himself with a thick clay to his body,face,hands and legs and anywhere in the body to facilitate better security.When the honey is harvested, it is purify for a better storage. The honey is put into a clean containers and left in hot sun. .The honey melts to its point then all wax are sieved and kept in a clean dry container for future use.

IMPORTANCE

The honey is not eaten more often as people though but is kept for special occasions. The honey is a source of energy, as medicinal value, and also used to make local brews for ritual ceremonies such as circumcision, marriage and rain making

CACTUS PLANT

It is a spiky plant that grows from 1.5M-2M high. It?s a widely common in a semi arid region. It has large leaves full of thorns with a red sweat fruit surrounded by spikes. The fruits are edible by humans, birds and domestic animals. The leaves are quite important that play a major role in some communities. The leaves are cut from fully plant then spread in a line of a compound to make a constructive fence. During dry season the leaves are sliced into small piece after all thorns are burned then it is used as animals? fodders. Leaves have high percentage of cellulose and help in digestion.

The flower plays a major role in ecosystem where it facilitates nectar's for bees. Cactus plant is sometime grown in a deep valley so as to control soil erosion by the help of roots and leaves. In some communities like luos community who live in the western shore of Lake Baringo they are not happy to have such plant In their homestead since they dislike the thorny leaves cactus which might bring harm to their family.luos community are major? fishermen and they do not recognized the advantages of cactus plant as animal fodder.

The ilchamus community who lives on the southern shore of the lake baringo they are pastoralists hence they have a quite advantage of this plant where in most cases they grow more in their fence so as to safe guard themselves and their animals against any raids because they are impassable plant.

The pokot community most of the women and young ladies they normally do a lot of hand craft such as necklaces, baskery, calabashes, and many others. They use the cactus spike as needle in such duties.

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THE LAKE BARINGO

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 08 Jul 2013 08:12:00 +0000

The lake baringo is in the northern part of the Great Rift Valley with a surface area of 168 square kilometers and elevation of about 3,180feets above the sea level. The lake is fed by several rivers, Molo, Endao, Perrkera and Ol arabal, and has no obvious outlet but it has been believed to have underground outlet in the northern part of the lake. The waters are assumed to seep through lake sediments into the faulted volcanic bedrock. It lies off the beaten track in a hot and dusty setting bed rock. It is a critical habitat and refuge for more than 500 species of birds and fauna. A Goliath heronry is located on a rocky island known as Devil Island.

The tugen hills, an uplifted faulted fault block of volcanic and metamorphic rocks, lies west of the lake which runs for approximately twenty kilometers long which enhance the best attraction as a view point to the lake and all surroundings. The laikipia escarpment lies to the east. Water flows into the lake from the Mau hills and Tugen hills. The lake also provides an invaluable habitat for five fresh water fish species namely: Tilapia, cat fish, lung fish, Libelous and black barbas.Tilapia is endemic to the lake.

The Africa lung fish which was introduced to the lake and which now provides the majority of fish output from the lake. The lake is commonly turbid with sediments, partly due to intense soil erosion in the catchments especially on the south of lake. Lake fishing is important to the local social and economic development. The most fishermen round the lake are the IIchamus community who normally lives in the islands and at the southern shore of the lake.

The lake has several small islands:Ol kokwa, Devil island, Rongena island,Parmolok island,lokoros island,kopuso island and Longicharo island. The longest island being Ol Kokwa Island is an extinct volcanic which is located at the centre of the lake? The island measuring five kilometers in length and one kilometer across which is a bout five hundred hectares of land. A group of hot springs discharge a long the shoreline north –eastern corner of the island and has several fumarole,some of which have precipitated sulphur deposits.Ilchamus community inhabit this island where five hundred and seventy people lives here. Both women and men they practice fishing as their main economic activity. They used a simple raft made of balsa wood as a mode of transport. At this island, a school, dispensary, and fish market is available here.

The Parmolok Island is the second largest island of about ninety hectares of land. The island is being owned by Ilchamus Moran who intended to marry five wives and blessed to have twenty seven children. It is quite unique island due to vegetations of medicinal plants .The rocks arrangement of this island facilitate good view .He keeps Goats, Sheep ,Cattle and poultry Apart from this he does fishing to earn a better living for the family

TERMITE HILL

Termite worker build and maintain nests which house the colony. these are elaborate structure made using a combination of soil, mud chewed wood or cellulose, saliva and faces nest has many functions such as providing a protected living space and water conservation. There are many nursery chambers deep within the nest where eggs and first larvae are tended. Nests are punctuated by a maze of tunnel-like gallery that provides air conditioning and control carbon dioxide and oxygen.

The termite hill has a long hollow chimney usually grows longer. Strong rainfall and human beings destroy this chimney. In most cases chimney is built slightly narrow as it grows up to facilitate security for the entire insects beneath the earth crust. Additional most chimneys bend towards north way and south way to escape direct sunlight.

THE QUEEN

A primary queen has a great capacity to lay eggs in some species, The mature queen has a greatly distended abdomen and may produce 20,000 to 30,000 eggs a day .The abdomen increases the length to several times more than before mating and reduces her ability to move freely .And attendant workers provide assistance. When the queen mates once with the male and stores the gametes for life, as the male termites dies shortly after mating.

The winged caste as the reproductive caste and they are only termites with well-developed eyes .In a distinct dry season, the winged caste leave the nest in a large swarms after the first soaking rain of the rainy season. After landing at an acceptance site, where they mates and attempt to form a nest in damp earth.

WORKERS

Workers termites undertake the labor of food storage, brood and nest maintains and some defense duty. Workers help in the colony for the digestion food.

The soldiers has behavioral specialization providing strength which are primarily useful against termites attacks .Many soldiers have jaws so enlarge, they cannot feed themselves but instead, like juvenile are fed by workers. Simple holes in the forehead exuding defensive secretions are a feature of the family. Soldiers are usually blind.

DIET

Termites are generally group according to their nest and feeding habitats All termites eats celluloses in its various forms as plant fibre. Cellulose is a rich energy source but remains difficult to digest.

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Hunting Safaris in Tanzania

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:45:00 +0000

Tanzania has the finest wildlife habitat in Africa and abounds in a wide variety of animal and bird life. Many areas remain untouched by humanity and it is still quite possible to enjoy a traditional tented safari as the famous hunters of old times did many years ago.

In addition to the world famous Mt. Kilimanjaro, the country is noted for its spectacular game reserves, scenery and a wide variety of game animals found nowhere else in Africa. Particularly in the Selous, one can not only experience the excitement of the Buffalo hunt, but also the adventure of a walking safari in one of the last great wilderness areas in the world.

Game and bird hunting is legal in Tanzania, and during the hunting season, which runs from July to December of each year, hunters from around the world arrive to embark on private guided expeditions into the African bush.

The Selous Game Reserve is one of the best places for a hunting safari. It is located in the southern part of the country and is the largest hunting conservancy in Tanzania. The vegetation is mainly miombo and mopane bush with dense thickets and open plains ideal for lifetime game-hunting experience.

During a hunting safari, the client and his guide have the entire area of the designated hunting block to themselves, affording the visitor an ideal opportunity to experience the wilds of the African bush without the distractions of other guests.

The Selous is uninhabited by people and is divided into 46 hunting blocks. The area is noted for its large population of dangerous game, especially buffalo. Leopard and lion are plentiful, as well as crocodile and hippo.

Hunting safaris last anywhere between a week to a few months, with guests and their guide setting up camp in a specific hunting block and exploring the entire area over a set period of time. Camps are well equipped with comforts like hot showers, flushing toilets, and walk-in furnished tents.

The most exciting thing is that hunting safaris take visitors to some of the most remote parts of the country on a private basis, and guests often return with a variety of antelope and buffalo species, and sometimes the occasional lion or leopard.

Game viewing and tracking takes up a large amount of the day, with the hunters often rising at dawn, returning to camp for breakfast or lunch, then setting off again in the afternoon until sundown.

Although game hunting is on the top of most hunters’ lists, bird hunting is becoming increasingly popular around seasonal rivers and dams. Guinea fowl, sand grouse, francolin, and some geese and duck species are plentiful throughout the country.

Hunting companies are required to ensure that their commercial activities do not deplete the natural wealth of the country’s wildlife population, and many groups sponsor community wildlife projects that educate local villagers about the environment and help to improve educational and medical services.

Hunting company initiatives have also included anti-poaching education and patrols, clinic and school building, and community education efforts about wildlife preservation and coexistence.

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Natural Track Safaris.

The Tsavo Cheetah Project (TCP).

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 27 May 2013 07:21:00 +0000

Tsavo Cheetah Project (TCP) which was commenced in April 2011, by the Principle Investigator, Cherie Schroff. The long-term project works in affiliation with Felidae Conservation Fund and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) under a research permit which covers the 40,000 km? Tsavo Ecosystem, from the National Council of Science and Technology. TCP is independently registered in Kenya as a national NGO. Prior to implementation, the last scientific cheetah population assessment for the Tsavo region was in 1990, when Paule Gros estimated cheetah numbers in and surrounding Kenya?s protected areas. At a total estimate of 793 cheetahs, 55% was based in Tsavo (Gros 1998). The Tsavo cheetah population along with connecting populations (Mara and Serengeti) makes up one of two globally important cheetah populations in Kenya and one of four in East Africa. The resident Tsavo cheetah population is part of a larger trans-boundary population, where subpopulations in Tsavo, Maasailand, and the Maasai Mara, connect through contiguous areas of Tanzania. In addition to the significance of Tsavo to these connecting populations, the Tsavo ecosystem is recognized as hosting a large and significant cheetah population, in the country’s national strategic plan for the species. This project supports multiple objectives, goals, targets and activities, as outlined in the National Conservation and Management Strategy for Cheetah and Wild dog (2010).

What they are doing:
The aim of TCP is to protect and conserve the Tsavo ecosystem cheetah population with a multifaceted, holistic approach. As a long-term project in Kenya, The Tsavo Cheetah Project monitors cheetahs for trend and threat information on an ongoing basis. TCP employees standardized cheetah monitoring techniques, including direct sightings, our tourists and park staff assisted photographic survey, camera traps, and spoor tracking. Within Tsavo East National Park, the project is also working with KWS to combat off-road driving and cheetah harassment, which has the potential to threaten the cheetah’s chances of survival through behavior alteration.
Since its inception in mid-2011, the project has conducted interviews with residents living on the periphery of the park to compile data on cheetah sightings and conflict issues. We conduct verifications on livestock predation and investigate reports on the retaliatory killing of cheetahs. Education is a key component to cheetah conservation in the Tsavo region. Therefore engaging communities on the proper identification and differentiation between spotted cat species and specific predator behavior, coupled with on-site assistance on livestock husbandry improvement, are critical ongoing activities of TCP. All field activities in Tsavo East will continue throughout the park and adjacent land, eventually expanding with added staff throughout the ecosystem to assess cheetah population threats and demographic trends overtime.

What they Need & What You Get
The requested total amount of $5,000 is estimated to cover a three month period (July ? September) in the field, including vehicle rental pending award for vehicle purchase
? Vehicle hire / petrol / maintenance fees (only a few activities can actually be done on foot; this is lion and elephant habitat, too, and a vast area)
? Camp and sustenance (yes, we require food and shelter, on the lowest possible budget)
? Local assistant salary for cheetah education program implementation (essential for cultural issues, language barriers and capacity building)
? ?A Tsavo Cheetah?s Ecosystem? educational materials for local schools and community visits where conflict exists (it?s important to make it fun, interesting and engaging for local children and adult residents).
If any donor wants these costs broken down to monthly / weekly / daily amounts and the estimation for booklets and poster materials, please contact me. Receipts in Kenyan shillings can also be provided to donors

What you get:
$25: Acknowledgement on the project website and social media pages.
$100: Acknowledgement on the project website and social media, and a private photograph of a newly identified Tsavo cheetah, during 2013.
$1000: Acknowledgement on the project website and social media, and two private photographs of newly identified Tsavo cheetahs, during 2013.
$2,000: Three day period with the project in the field (covers a daily / packed or locally bought lunch and transportation for two in the project vehicle during daily field activities for a 3 day period-dawn to dusk!).
$5,000: Seven day period with the project in the field (covers a daily / packed or locally bought lunch and transportation for two in the project vehicle during daily field activities for a 7 day period-dawn to dusk!).
If anyone?s interest in exceeding this seven day time period for an additional donation, this is also possible!
The Impact
The best way that you can help save the cheetah, is to donate to specific on-ground conservation projects, like ours, who have secured the permits and partnerships to do the field work but only require additional funding.

Grant awards do not last forever and rarely do they cover all field costs, such as petrol and research assistant salary. There are often time periods in between applications and awards when researchers and conservationists in the field rely solely on in-kind donations and fundraising. Critical project activities can only continue on a consecutive basis, if funding is continuously flowing in?
Our community assistance and educational programs to reduce cheetah conflict and persecution , cheetah ID and monitoring inside and outside the Tsavos, should not be halted due to lack of petrol, camp, or vehicle rental costs… Threats to these cheetahs do not decrease as project funds do, unfortunately.
Please consider assisting in our research and conservation efforts
to save this critical Trans boundary population in East Africa.

PKP. Kenya safaris
Natural Track Safaris

Facts about the’ King of the Jungle’

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 07:44:00 +0000

Family: Felidae ?? Species: Panthera leo

Famously referred to the King of the jungle, they actually do not inhabit jungles
It is partially true to refer to the lions as ‘King of the beasts’.? It is a fact that they really are kings of the predatory beasts, but they can be easily backed down or killed by elephants and water buffalo.? A pack of hyenas can also back down or even kill a solitary lion.

But they are in themselves packed for the kill. They have strong, compact bodies and powerful forelegs, teeth, and jaws for pulling down and killing prey. Their coats are yellow-gold, and adult males have long, dark, shaggy manes. Young lions have light spotting on their coats. Their strength is also reflected during mating whereby can copulate up to as many as 100 times in a 24 hour period
Male lions grow larger than females, reaching up to ten feet long (females reach up to nine feet long), plus a two- to three-foot-long tail. Male lions weigh from 330 to 530 pounds; females weigh 270 to 300 pounds. Lions stand between 3-4 feet tall at the shoulder.

They are the only true social members of the cat family and live in groups called prides.
All females in a pride are related
All lactating females will allow any cub in their pride to nurse
Lions run at a rate of 50 mph, and sleep up to 20 hours a day
Tigers are lions’ closest relatives. Without their coats, lion and tiger bodies are so similar that only experts can tell them apart.

Their roar can be heard up to five miles away.
Male lions can usually only hold on to a pride for 2-4 years before a younger, stronger male or coalition of males throws him out and takes over.

Many people only think of the females as doing the hunting, but as males spend much of their lives in search of a pride, they too must fend for themselves and are quite capable of hunting.
Though grown-up lions have rarely been known to have spots, there is one male in Masai mara that I have seen time and again that was born with a huge black patch on the chest and inner front left leg. I have watched him from birth till he was kicked out of the pride with his brothers. Definitely he left the vicinity and only hears about his where a bouts from time to time.
Lions are the only sexually dimorphic members of the cat family.
Male lions are the only members of the cat family to have a mane.
They are the only felines with tufts at the ends of their tails.

Female lions (lioness) reach two thirds of their adult size by the time they are 2 years old.
Males begin to really grow between 3 and 3 1/2 years and by 4 will be almost their adult size and weight
Both males and females continue to grow until they are 6 years old, primarily becoming more massive

Habitat
Lions inhabit a wide range of habitats, from open plains to thick brush and dry thorn forest.
Diet
Lions eat primarily large animals, such as zebra and wildebeest, weighing from 100 to 1,000 pounds. In times of shortage, they also catch and eat a variety of smaller animals from rodents to reptiles. Lions steal kills from hyenas, leopards, and other predators, but may also lose their catches to hyena groups. Lions may also feed on domestic livestock, especially in areas near villages.
Reproduction
Female lions usually give birth to a litter every two years. Females are receptive to mates for a few days several times a year, unless they are pregnant or nursing. Mating spurs ovulation. Females give birth to one to five cubs after a gestation of about three and a half months. Cubs nurse for six months, but start eating meat at three months. Due to varied dangers, including starvation during times of food shortage and attacks by male lions taking over prides, up to 80 percent of lion cubs die within their first two years of life.
Life Span
Zoo lions may live up to 25 years, while wild lions live about 15 years.
Behavior
Lions live in groups called prides, which may include from several to 40 individuals. Pride mates associate in sub-groups within the pride. Female pride mates are related to each other. Although both males and females defend the pride’s territory, the larger males take on most defense duties, marking territory with roars and scent marks (urine). Females do most of the hunting.

Several females stalk prey from different angles to within 100 feet before attacking the targeted animal. Females stay in their mothers’ prides for life, unless food scarcity forces them out. Young males are driven from their prides when they grow large enough to compete with the dominant males.
Young males join in coalitions, usually with brothers and cousins, and search for a pride to take over. Males entering a new pride will kill all cubs that cannot run from them. In India, female and male lions live apart, joining only to mate.

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Natural Track Safaris

Facts you should know about the Giraffe

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 08:49:00 +0000

Facts you should know about the Giraffe

Giraffe is one of the most amazing animals especially because of the long neck that makes it sometimes cumbersome and prone to a couple of problems. We will see them as we proceed and you will be able to understand more.

African ruminant mammal, Giraffa camelopardalis, live in open savannahs south of the Sahara and has only one family member, the Okapi. The giraffe is the tallest living mammal. Head/shoulder length is approximately 13' for the male. Shoulder height is 8-12', overall height 15-19'. Weight is 1,100-2,800 lbs. The reticulated giraffes are handsomely patterned in golden browns, with a coarsely netted (reticulated) pattern mainly quadrangular in shape. Males and females have stiff manes along their necks. Both sexes have horn-like structures called ossicones on top of their heads between their ears. These ossicones are present at birth in the form of small knobs of cartilage covered with skin and hair which becomes bony nodules with age.

They have seven vertebrae in neck, the same as man and most other mammals despite the long neck. Only that the vertebrae are much bigger. The tail measures up to one yard with a terminal tuft of stiff, black hair.

They have long tongues that measure 18-21 inches long. The inner part of the tongue is pink in color, and then changes to a purplish-black color for the last 6 inches that are commonly visible.

A quick look at the adaptations of the Giraffe

They have long legs and neck, long, tough, prehensile tongue, and leathery mouth for food gathering. Their coloration is protective. They are tall with good eyesight for watchfulness. Giraffes have high blood pressure (240/160) for pumping blood to the brain. Herds are small and loosely constructed of 5-15 individuals, consisting of one bull with females and young. Other bulls are solitary or in pairs.

They usually sleep standing up. Going for a month without water is also possible as an adaptation to long drought periods in their native areas. A browsing ruminant that eats regularly throughout the day, the giraffe prefers young leaves and shoots at tops of acacia trees which sometimes ends up shaping the regularly visited trees. They prefer to drink regularly, but can go without water for several days. Giraffes can run up to 35 mph. Predators are leopards (prey on young), lions, and man. Giraffes kick with their hooves and slam with their heads. A giraffe usually sleeps for only 1-12 minutes.

Off springs

Giraffes are non-seasonal breeders, usually producing one calf after a gestation period of 14-15 months. Newborn giraffe calves begin their lives by falling up to about 6 feet to the ground, and weight 87-107 lbs. They become sexually mature between 3 and 4 years of age and have a life span of about 25 years and up to 30 in captivity. Full body size is not reached until five years of age.

It is interesting to note that...

The carotid artery that carries blood from the heart to the head is thick, muscular and elastic, ballooning when the giraffe stoops to absorb increase in pressure. When the giraffe raises its head, a series of check valves in the inch-wide jugular vein prevents a sudden back flow from the head, emptying the brain. They are most vulnerable to predators when drinking or lying down. They may see red-orange, yellow-green, purple, green and blue as colors. Their scientific name means "camel-leopard-like one who walks swiftly." Their spot patterns are as individual as fingerprints. They are among the very few mammals that cannot swim at all. Giraffe’s have a variety of sounds but they are rarely heard. They may grunt of snort when alarmed, females may whistle to call their young, and calves can bleat.

PKP. Safaris in Kenya desk
Natural Track Safaris

ARTICLE TERMITES

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 07:24:00 +0000

The termites are a group of eusocial insects usually classified at the taxonomic rank of order Isoptera. sometimes called "white ants", though they are not closely related to true ants. Termites live in colonies that, at maturity, number from several hundred to several million individuals. Colonies use a self-organized systems of activity guided by swarm intelligence to exploit food sources and environments that could not be available to any single insect acting alone. A typical colony contains nymphs (semi-mature young), workers, soldiers, and reproductive individuals of both genders, sometimes containing several egg-laying

queens.termites divide labour among gender lines, produce overlapping generations and take care of young collectively. Worker termites undertake the labors of foraging, food storage, brood and nest maintenance, and some defense duties in certain species. Workers are the main caste in the colony for the digestion of cellulose in food and are the most likely to be found in infested wood. The soldier caste has anatomical and behavioral specializations, providing strength and Armour which are primarily useful against ant attack.termites undergo incomplete

metamorphosis, with their freshly hatched young taking the form of tiny termites that grow without significant morphological changes. Termites are generally grouped according to their feeding behavior. Thus, the commonly used general groupings are subterranean, soil-feeding, dry wood, damp wood, and grass-eating. Termite workers build and maintain nests to house their colony. These are elaborate structures made using a combination of soil, mud, chewed

wood/cellulose, saliva, and farces. A nest has many functions such as to provide a protected living space and to collect water through condensation. Nests are commonly built underground, in large pieces of timber, inside fallen trees or atop living trees. Some species build nests above-ground, and they can develop into mounds. In tropical savannas the mounds also known as "anthills" may be very large, with an extreme of 9 meters (30 ft) high . In many cultures, termites are used for food . Ecologically, termites are important in nutrient recycling, habitat creation, soil formation and quality and, particularly the winged reproductive, as food for countless predators. In addition, scorpions, lizards, snakes, small mammals, and birds live in abandoned or weathered mounds, and aardvarks dig substantial caves and burrows in them, which then become homes for larger animals such as hyenas and mongooses.

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Natural Track Safaris

African Safari: The world's tallest mammal

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 11:25:00 +0000

If you have been following this series on the African wildlife Experience and what to expect in your Kenya safari then here is some more great stuff for you. Our nature series this season was features on an informative yet interesting coverage on the Leopard, but a Cranston, a photographer whose love for nature is unending, had a wonderful time in Lake Nakuru and Amboseli national parks heightened us differently.

Right now as I speak, I am in Kenya, a country that is perceived as; a wonderland of treasures, the cradle of mankind and the land of contrasts. The greatest wonder of the world is now on as I had told you earlier in the migration update and many visitors from all over the world are streaming to Maasai Mara to have the first-hand glimpse. Am talking about, the wildebeest migration.

I know you might be wondering why I have to say all this stuff instead of going directly to my point. Well! If I were a psychiatrist, I would have told you "……… this is important as well" of which it is. But my main point here is to prepare you on what to expect when in a safari.
If your expectation of seeing the big five or monster lizard or even some specific species of birds are met, there is always more to see and to learn. Kenya as I said offers a diversity of attractions. That’s what this series is about, so that you can know what Kenya and its diversity has to offer.

This time we will talk about what's interesting about the world's tallest living mammal encountered a lot on Safari in Kenya.
The giraffe is the world’s tallest terrestrial animal. It's one of the most amazing animals especially because of the long neck that makes it sometimes cumbersome and prone to a couple of problems that we shall see as we proceed.

These African ruminant mammals, Giraffa Camelopardalis, live in open savannahs south of the Sahara and have only one family member, the Okapi. The reticulated giraffes are handsomely patterned in golden browns, with a coarsely netted (reticulated) pattern mainly quadrangular in shape. Males and females have stiff manes along their necks and both sexes have horn-like structures called ossicones on top of their heads between their ears. These ossicones are present at birth in the form of small knobs of cartilage covered with skin and hair which becomes bony nodules with age, and fuse to the skull with time.

Giraffes are widely spread in Africa and Kenya in particular. As Cranston witnessed, it's easy to spot the three species of giraffes in this part of the world.
It amazes to know that giraffes despite being the tallest mammal have seven vertebrae in their neck, the same with man and most other mammals. Only that the vertebrae are much bigger. The tail measures up to one yard with a terminal tuft of stiff, black hair.
They have long tongues that measure 18-21 inches long. The inner part of the tongue is pink in color, and then changes to a purplish-black color for the last 6 inches that are commonly visible. ……… I wish you see them browse on the acacias.

A quick look at the adaptations of the Giraffe
Giraffes have long legs and neck, long, tough, prehensile tongue, and leathery mouth for food gathering. Their coloration is protective. They are tall with good eyesight for watchfulness. Giraffes have high blood pressure (240/160) for pumping blood to the brain. Herds are small and loosely constructed of 5-15 individuals, consisting of one bull with females and young. Other bulls are solitary or in pairs.

Another interesting thing about the giraffe is that they usually sleep standing up for only 1-12 minutes. Going for a month without water is also possible as an adaptation to long drought periods in their native areas.
Giraffe is browsing ruminant that eats regularly throughout the day, they prefer young leaves and shoots at tops of acacia trees which sometimes ends up shaping the regularly visited trees. They prefer to drink regularly, but can go without water for several days and can run up to 35 mph. Predators are leopards (prey on young), lions, and man. Giraffes kick with their hooves and slam with their heads.

Off springs.....
Giraffes are non-seasonal breeders, usually producing one calf after a gestation period of 14-15 months. Newborn giraffe calves begin their lives by falling up to about 6 feet to the ground, and weight 87-107 lbs. They become sexually mature between 3 and 4 years of age and have a life span of about 25 years and up to 30 in captivity. Full body size is not reached until five years of age.

It is interesting to note that...
The carotid artery that carries blood from the heart to the head is thick, muscular and elastic, ballooning when the giraffe stoops to absorb increase in pressure. When the giraffe raises its head, a series of check valves in the inch-wide jugular vein prevents a sudden back flow from the head, emptying the brain. They are most vulnerable to predators when drinking or lying down. They may see red-orange, yellow-green, purple, green and blue as colors. Their scientific name means "camel-leopard-like one who walks swiftly." Their spot patterns are as individual as fingerprints. They are among the very few mammals that cannot swim at all.
Head/shoulder length is approximately 13' for the male. Shoulder height is 8-12', overall height 15-19' and Weight is 1,100-2,800 lbs.

Giraffe’s have a variety of sounds but they are rarely heard. They may grunt of snort when alarmed, females may whistle to call their young, and calves can bleat
There are more to learn and see in the giraffe especially the walking style but, I won't tell you now until you make arrangements to see them. Almost every large park and reserve in Kenya has at least one species. But for you, I would recommend you take a safari to Samburu and see the most beautiful of the three and then proceed to Lake Nakuru and see the largest of the three yet the most endangered. From there you can voyage to Amboseli or Mara and take pleasure in the look of the Kenyan named Maasai giraffe. An extension to the coastal beaches of Kenya is fare as well…….

Next time we look on the leopard, probably the most beautiful cat ………… Join me then!!

PKP. Safaris in Kenya desk
Natural Track Safaris

The magical Zanzibar…

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:42:00 +0000

There are many islands in Indian Ocean on the tropics of east Africa but there is one that is more mystical and awe-inspiring – The Zanzibar Island. It is an island with alluring history rich in dramatic olden episodes that none of its neighbors can fail to notice and adore.

The beaches of Zanzibar are a paradise, interspersed with picturesque fishing villages, where the people live a simple way of life, unchanged over the years. There are more than 25 fantastic beaches in Zanzibar, and some are so peaceful and remote that the only noise breaking the silence is likely to be the ocean tides.

The East Coast of Zanzibar is among the best places on Zanzibar. The part boasts endless palm tree-lined beaches, fringed by one of the best and untouched reef systems in the world. You can also visit small fishing villages and enjoy a tranquil, friendly atmosphere away from the mainstream and large tourist-type resorts.

The area is haven for those looking for a place to relax and who want to experience a local, cultural experience. For the vacationers, Zanzibar invokes sights, sounds and smells of ancient days. Though part of the modern world, Zanzibar is still one of the few “get-away” places available for the astute voyager. Enjoy relaxing at the sultry, spick and span-white beaches while the turquoise-crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean lap at your feet. Or if you are more adventuresome, step back in time as you explore the diverse cultures of Zanzibar and enjoy what Zanzibar has to offer. It makes the perfect end to your safari and expeditions on the mainland.

People say, you have never been to Zanzibar until you explore the exotic & historic Stone Town, visit the famous spice gardens and Boat trip to the famous yet controversial Prison Island. You will need also to visit the East Coast which was founded to promote Eco-tourism. The area economically benefits local communities and is sensitive to the natural environment

You can spice up your vacation by visiting the northern tip of Zanzibar called Nungwi which is accessible by road lined with banana palms, mangroves and coconut trees. This is the dhow building capital of Zanzibar Island, so it is a good place to see traditional craftsmen at work.

PKP. safaris in kenya desk
Natural Track Safaris.

Uganda – A must visit Top 10 attractions

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 13:28:00 +0000

Uganda – A must visit Top 10 attractions

It is almost a month now since our Nature series team launched its wide strides to Uganda. The first write-up on gorilla tracking has been a great welcome to a diverse community in the travel and tourism world. This time round, we have been chasing after a fortune of identifying Uganda’s top ten attractions and we found an incredible list of our fortune here!!

1.Kidepo Valley National Park

The Kidepo Valley National Park is one of Uganda’s most spectacular parks. It is 1,442 square kilometres and harbor scenery unsurpassed in any other park in East Africa. Tucked into the corner of Uganda’s border with Sudan and Kenya, the park offers breathtaking Savannah landscapes, which end in rugged horizon. The vegetation can most excellent be described as open tree Savannah which varies much in structure and composition. Mountain forest dominates some of the high places, while areas along the Lorupei River support dense Acacia geradi forest. The flora and fauna of the park are more typical of Kenya than the rest of Uganda. The landscape throughout the park is studded with small hills, rocky outcrops and inselbergs from which one can obtain stunning views in all directions. The Kidepo Valley National Park was established in the 1960s. Kidepo Valley National Park is a 1436 km² national park in Karamoja region in northwest Uganda. Kidepo is rugged savannah, dominated by the 2750 m Mount Morungole and transected by the Rivers Kidepo and Narus. Perennial water makes River Kidepo an oasis in the semi-desert which hosts over 86 mammal species including lion, cheetah, leopard, bat-eared fox, giraffe – as well as almost 500 bird species.

2.Sipi falls

Sipi Falls is supposedly one of Uganda’s most beautiful sights. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Uganda and is about 15 km from Kapchorwa.Sipi Falls is a series of three waterfalls and lie near Kapchorwa, north of Mbale. The waterfalls lie on the edge of Mount Elgon National Park, near Mount Elgon on the Kenyan border.

3.Mt Elgon National Park, Uganda

Mt. Elgon National park is located near Mbale in the Eastern part of Uganda. The park covers 1,145 sq km. It is named after Mt Elgon (4,321m), an extinct Volcanic Mountain that lies on Uganda’s border with Kenya. In the prehistoric times this mountain stood taller than Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in East Africa. Though the Mountain is shared by Uganda and Kenya its highest point Wagagai peak (4321m) lies in Uganda. The mountain has got three other major peaks which are Kiongo (4303m), Mubiyi (4210m) and Jackson’s summit (4165m). Mt. Elgon is known locally as Mt. Masaba. Masaba is the name of the founding ancestor of the Bagisu who is said to have emerged from a cave on the slopes several centuries ago. The Park can be accessed by road. The journey takes around 3-4 hours from Kampala along a good tarmac road. Hiking is the major tourism activity. Climbing Mt. Elgon is not so much challenging and therefore can attract both medium climbers and the experienced climbers. From here, you can visit the exquisite Sipi Falls for scenic viewing, Nature walks from Budadiri trailhead. Community visits and participation in Imbalu dances.

4.Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi

The Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi are regarded as the major spiritual centre for the Buganda people, the largest Ugandan ethnic group. They constitute a site embracing almost 30 ha of hillside within Kampala district. Most of the site is agricultural, farmed by traditional methods. At its core on the hilltop is the former palace of the Kabakas of Buganda, built in 1882 and converted into the royal burial ground in 1884. Four royal tombs now lie within the Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, the main building, which is circular and surmounted by a dome. It is a major example of an architectural success in organic materials, principally wood, thatch, reed, wattle and daub. The site’s main undertone lies, however, in its indefinable values of belief, spirituality, continuity and identity. Guides at Kasubi lead visitors around the area and into the building, explaining the history of the Baganda and the cultural traditions associated with the tombs.

5.Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

It is known for its exceptional biodiversity, with more than 160 species of trees and over 100 species of ferns. The park is part of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and is situated along the Democratic Republic of Congo border next to the Virunga National Park and on the edge of the western Rift Valley. It comprises 331 square kilometres of jungle forests and contains both montane and lowland forest and is accessible only on foot. Many species of birds and butterflies can also be found there, as well as many endangered species, including the mountain gorilla. Bwindi is also an incredible preserve home to some of Africa’s most endangered animals. It is a haven for gorilla tracking.

6.Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The Rwenzori Mountains National Park covers nearly 100,000 ha in western Uganda and comprises the main part of the Rwenzori mountain chain, which includes Africa’s third highest peak (Mount Margherita: 5,109 m). The region’s glaciers, waterfalls and lakes make it one of Africa’s most beautiful alpine areas. The park has many natural habitats of endangered species and a rich and unusual flora comprising, among other species, the giant heather.

7.Mpanga National Reserve

This is a government nature reserve 453 hectares in size. Gazette around 50 years ago, the 45km2 Mpanga forest reserve near the small town of Mpigi, lies 37kms west of Kampala on the road to Masaka. It is a compact forest offering a cathedral like atmosphere in which to enjoy fabulous bird watching. The main forest center in 500 m from the main high way and marked by a decorative sign. Visitors are welcome to picnic or camp at the forest center and follow any of the well marked trails to the south of the river. The reserve protects an extensive patch of medium -altitude rainforest, characteristic of the vegetation that once extended over much of the northern lake Victoria Hinterland, but has largely been cleared over the past century due to human activity. Wide footpaths (initially made by researchers) crisscross the forest where Celtis mildbraedii and Bosquieia phoberos form the dominant tree species. The forest is now is now open to public.

8.Mabira Forest reserve

Mabira forest lies along the main highway running from Jinja to Kampala. Its actual location is 54 km from kampala and 20 km from Jinja. The forest centre is on the edge of Najjembe village approximately 500m north of the main road. If you are coming from Kampala, it is signposted to your left before you reach the roadside market at Najjembe. The Mabira forest project was established with help from the European Union. There are 10 forest trails catering for people of all time schedules and abilities with options of both guided and unguided trails. If you are not rushing to the west of Uganda or needing to get to Kampala in a hurry, then consider Mabira Forest – a pleasant backwater and stop over.

9.Lake Victoria, Uganda

While the communities living around the lake have many stories to tell in addition to the lake being a source of living for them, no need to add to what Wikipedia says;

“Lake Victoria or Victoria Nyanza (also known as Ukerewe and Nalubaale) is one of the Great Lakes of Africa. Lake victoria is 3rd biggest lake in the world covering 68,800 square kilometres (26,560 mi²) in size – making it the continent’s largest lake, the largest tropical lake in the world, and the second largest fresh water lake in the world in terms of surface area (third largest if one considers Lake Michigan-Huron as a single lake). Being relatively shallow for its size, with a maximum depth of 84 m (276 ft) and a mean depth of 40 m (131 ft), Lake Victoria ranks as the seventh largest freshwater lake by volume, containing 2,750 cubic kilometres (2.2 million acre-feet) of water. It is the source of the longest branch of the Nile River, the White Nile, and has a water catchment area of 184,000 square kilometres (71,040 mi²). It is a biological hotspot with great biodiversity. The lake lies within an elevated plateau in the western part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley and is subject to territorial administration by Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya. The lake has a shoreline of 3,440 km (2138 miles), and has more than 3,000 islands, many of which are inhabited. These include the Ssese Islands in Uganda, a large group of islands in the northwest of the Lake that are becoming a popular destination for tourists”

10.The people of Uganda the cultural diversity

The Uganda culture is made up of a dissimilar array of cultural groups.It includes a number of religious groups like Christians, Sikhs and Hindus. People speak in 40 languages out of which Luganda is the most common. Swahili is also used while English is the official language. Literature of Uganda is very rich as well.Many of the regions like Buganda, Bunyoro and Toro had kingdoms of their own. Lake Kyoga forms the northern periphery for the Bantu-speaking peoples, who dominate much of east, central and southern Africa. In Uganda they include the Baganda and several other tribes. In the north live the Lango and the Acholi, who speak Nilotic languages. Iteso and Karamojong who speak a Nilotic language, occupy the east parts of Uganda and few Pygmies live isolated in the rainforests of western Uganda. Each of the tribe is very respectful to their tradition and the culture of Uganda can be best described as a melting pot of diverse cultural practices. The Uganda people are quite hospitable.

PKP. safaris in kenya desk
Natural Track Safaris.

Mt. Elgon National park – Secluded splendor.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 11:40:00 +0000

On the western boarder of Kenya and Uganda lies a magnificent land form of extinct shield volcacano whose undulations and peaks give a shear feeling of untamed wilderness and secluded splendor. Its slopes support rich variety of vegetation from mount forest to high open moorland studded with the giant lobelia and groundsel plants all dictated by change of altitude. This is Mount Elgon National park!

The park boasts one of the most unique botanical diversity ranging from low attitude podocarpus and the Elgon Olive trees to the high attitude broad-leaf montane forest whose notable Ranunculus keniensis (previously thought endemic to Mount Kenya) occurs.

At the Endebess Bluff, there are panoramic view of the areas' escarpments, gorges, mesas, and rivers. The highest peak of Mt. Elgon on the Kenya side, Koitoboss, measures 13,852 ft (4,155 m), and is easily reached by hikers in about two hours from the road's end. Activities include; hiking to Endebess Bluff and Koitoboss Peak, Primate and bird watching, Cave explorations, Camping photography to mention but a few.

For bird lovers, you will be treated with a share of over 300 birds’ species including the endangered Lammergeier, African Goshawk and Baglafecht weaver. The Maathai Longleg an endangered dragonfly was discovered here in the year 2000 and named after Nobel Prize winner Wangari Mathaai.

Together with the fauna and flora, the park has a variety of scenery such as cliffs, caves, waterfalls, gorges, mesas, calderas, hot springs, and the mountain peaks. The most popular areas are the four explore-able, vast caves where frequent night visitors such as elephants and buffaloes come to lick the natural salt found on the cave walls. Kitum cave, with overhanging crystalline walls, enters 200m into the side of Mt. Elgon.

Recent studies have shown that elephants and other mammals are major contributors to the development of these unique caves. The animals frequently visit the caves at night to 'mine' the natural salt by licking it from the cave walls. The caves are mapped and Kitum, Chepnyali, and Mackingeny can be explored by visitors to the park

From a cultural and ancient sustainable utilization and exploration, the park is popular for the setting of parts of Richard Preston's book ‘The Hot Zone’ with Kitum being the most popular part in setting of the book. Undoubtedly, Henry Rider Haggard's well-known novel 'King Solomon's Mines' may have also been inspired by the panoramic caves of Mt Elgon.

Other attractions include ancient cave paintings near the trailhead at Budadiri, and hot springs in the former volcano's crater which bubble at temperatures of up to 48°C

PKP. safaris in kenya desk
Natural Track Safaris.

The history of Tanzania – Tale of uncharted territory

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 13:16:00 +0000

The history of Tanzania is filled with stories of struggle and triumph, victory and peace. This rich history can be traced as far as; from the beginning of human settlement and Tribal Habitation to the beginnings of trade and merchant states along the Swahili Coast. Rich traces also include the arrival of colonialism and the advent of independence while political details and the modern Tanzania are not to be ignored.

Tanzania has a long history of human habitation – some of the earliest hominoid fossils in the world were discovered in Olduvai Gorge and show records of hominoid habitation in the region going back at least 3 million years. It is thought that early hunter-gatherer communities inhabited the northern highlands as far back as 10,000 years ago and remained largely isolated until the arrival of Cushitic-speaking tribes from the north, who brought basic agricultural technologies to the area between 3,000 and 5,000 years ago.

More recent migrations of Bantu-speaking tribes from western Africa began around 1000 BC, and with their assimilation came advances in iron and steel production. Ancestors of the Maasai arrived more recently, beginning their migration around the 15th century and continuing to arrive from the area around southern Sudan for another three hundred years. Battles over grazing and agricultural land began as ethnic groups consolidated and appropriated loose borders and tribal regions.

Trade routes that led from the heart of the continent to the East African coast gradually gave rise to Swahili culture – a blend of Arab, Indian and Bantu influences that created one of the most developed trade networks in the Indian Ocean.

Although archaeological evidence shows the area was used as a trading port for Greek and Persian ships as early as 400 BC, permanent coastal settlements only developed around 800 AD, when civilizations around the Indian Ocean were wealthy enough to support annual voyages and a high volume of trade.
With large caravans laden with gold, spices, ivory, and slaves departing from Zanzibar, Kilwa, and other less prominent East African ports, Swahili civilization grew and flourished until the 15th century, when trade became more confined to Mombasa and Zanzibar.

Portuguese traders dominated the East African coast from 1525 until the early 18th century, when Omani Arabs once again regained control of the slave trade. The first missionaries journeyed to the mainland in the early 19th century and settlements, mission stations, and trading posts were built as far inland as Lake Tanganyika.

In the late 19th century, the German East African Company gained control of large portions of the Tanzanian mainland, although the British held a sphere of influence over the Omani sultans ruling the Zanzibar Archipelago. By 1891, most of mainland Tanzania was under the colonial administration of German East Africa.
At the end of World War I, the Germans relinquished control over the area and handed it over to British administration that governed by a system of indirect rule.
A fledgling national movement in opposition to colonial economic policies was founded in the 1930’s and by the early 1950’s; the movement came into its own. In 1954, an internal constitution was drawn up and resistance unified under the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU) with Julius Nyerere elected as its president.

After further elections in 1959, Britain established an internal self-government within the country and by 1962 the independent Republic of Tanganyika was formed with Nyerere as president.
Meanwhile, a popular revolution on the island of Zanzibar ousted the Omani sultan and in 1963, the archipelago gained its independence from British influence and Arab rule. One year later, leaders Nyerere and Karume, the first president of Zanzibar, signed an act of union to create the United Republic of Tanzania, which includes the Republic of Tanganyika and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar.
Today, Tanzania is a sovereign state under the ruler- ship of His Excellency president Jakaya Kikwete

PKP. safaris in kenya desk.
Natural Track Safaris

Hiking the Ruwenzori – Superb reward, magnificent scenery

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 06:30:00 +0000

The enchanted Ruwenzori mountain ranges lie in the Western Uganda along the Congolese boarder with a height of 5,100m above sea level. These unique snow - covered equatorial peaks of Ruwenzori rank among the highest ranges in Africa. Its lower slopes are mantled in moorland and rich mountain forest covering about 100 km in length and about 50 km in width.

Ruwenzori Mountains National Park protects the eastern slopes and glacial peaks of the 120km-long Ruwenzori Mountains a world-class hiking and mountaineering destination. Most of the park is accessible only to hikers although the magnificent scenery and 19 Albertine Rift endemics would be ample reward for Birders.

The Ruwenzori’s are referred to as the ‘Mountains of the Moon’ simply because the Roman Geographer Ptolemy Circa (AD 150) believed them to be the Lunae Montes predicted by the ancient Greeks to be the source of The Nile River.

The mountain peaks thereof have been named after early explorers to Uganda. Some of those in the centre of the range have snow cover. These include Mount Stanley (5,110m), Speke (4,889m), Baker (4,843m), Gessi (4,797m), Emin (4,791m) and Luigi di Savoia (4,626m). On Mt. Stanley are the twin summits of Alexandra (5,044m) and Margherita (5,110m).

These beautiful, often mist-shrouded mountains are non-volcanic and offer mountaineers and walkers splendid country and wonderful views. With their geographical nature, the Ruwenzori’s’ can boast of their challenging hiking and climbing possibilities notwithstanding the diverse flora and fauna on different altitude zone each with its own micro-climate.

The real adventure commence from Entebbe International Airport or the Uganda’s capital Kampala, from whence you will head to Western Uganda. After a night of acclimatization, you are now ready to boldly rough the Ruwenzori.

Its now the second day of the hike, when you advance to Nyakalengija (1,615m) – the beautiful trail meander off Fort Portal road as you strive to access Nyabitaba Hut (2,651m) through thick tropical vegetation.

Nyakalengija is 10 km before Nyabitaba Hut, passing first through cultivation then through forest arriving Nyabitaba Hut in the evening. If you have your own or rental car, don’t worry! There is a campsite and safe parking near the Nyahalengija office.

The third day is usually characterized by the longest; perhaps the most hectic stretch of the hike. After early breakfast, depending on the two Bigo Bogs, which are often knee-deep in mud, it may take you up to five hours before accessing the Bujuku Hut. En route you will be able to view Lake Bujuku that has a splendid setting between mounts Speke and Stanley Baker. Bujuku Hut will enable you to easily access Mt. Speke and this may mean spending an extra night here.

In case you intend to climb the highest point in the range - Margherita Peak on Mt. Stanley(5,109m) you will need to start from Elena Hut(4,541m)- 2 km off the loop trail and about four hours’ walk from either Bujuku or Kitandara Huts.

The fourth and fifth day entail an effortful ascend to Scott Elliot Pass – the highest point in the loop trail, (4,372m) to access Kitandara lakes. Overnight is mainly on Katandara Hut which is on the second lake a journey that will take over four hours of remarkable trek.

The fifth day is typically the most interesting; early in the morning, you will ascend a steep slope to Freshfield Pass (4,282m) and then descend to Bujongolo Cave (3,720m). En route the trail to Kabamba Cave(3,450m) there is a magnificent waterfall and a rock shelter where you can stay overnight as an alternative to Guy Yeoman Hut.

Very early in the morning you will move through gorgeous scenery of Savoia and Elena glaciers as you ascend through the Scott Elliot pass and go through the snow to Elena Hut. After an early breakfast ascend the snow-covered Alexander peak (5,092m) and proceed to the Supreme peak (5,109m). Here you will be rewarded by enjoying a beautiful panoramic view of world around you, then descend to Kitandara Hut for overnight right at the shores of Lake Kitandara.

The descend trek takes 2 to 3 days through Guy Yeoman and to Kasese via Nyabitaba and Lake Mahoma. You may choose to stay overnight at Nyabitaba Hut or proceed to Margarita Hotel to a comfortable rest from the long strenuous exercise.

Hiking Rwenzoris is truly an incredible world class hiking experience

PKP. safaris in kenya desk
Natural Track Safaris.

Mountain Climbing in Tanzania – the ‘rooftop of Africa’

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 06:24:00 +0000

Tanzania’s numerous parks and reserves offer many climbing options for the devoted explorer. The most frequent expeditions are obviously to Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru, but there are other destinations such as the Crater Highlands. Trekking companies will happily put together an itinerary that suits your preferences and will help make sure that you are adequately prepared.

Although Mt. Kilimanjaro tops the list as Africa’s most famous — and highest — mountain, Tanzania boasts many other mountain ranges and attractive peaks. Most of the country’s mountains and volcanoes are located in the north and east of the country. They vary from the dramatic crater of Mt. Meru and the active volcano of Ol Donyo Lengai to tamer options like the Usambara Mountains and comparatively gentle slopes of the Crater Highlands.

Hiking trips and mountain climbing in Tanzania is becoming a popular option for visitors not content to observe the country from the back of a game viewing vehicle. Instead, adventurous types are taking advantage of the many trails and peaks Tanzania has to offer.

Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is the best part of most visitors’ experiences in Tanzania. Few mountains can claim the grandeur, the breathtaking views of Amboseli National Park in Kenya, the Rift Valley, and the Masaai grassland, that belongs to Kilimanjaro.

Hiking on the ‘rooftop of Africa’ — the highest point on the continent at 5896 metres — is the adventure of a lifetime, especially because, if paced well, everyone from seasoned trekkers to first-time enthusiasts can scale the snowy peak.

Once inside the park, thick lowland forest covers the lower altitudes and breaks into alpine meadows once the air begins to thin. Near the peak, the landscape is harsh and barren, with rocks and ices the predominant features above a breathtaking African view.

Scaling the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro (the highest peak and most famous mountain in Africa) is a heavy challenge, more from the rigours of altitude than the actual difficulty of the hike itself. The climb, which takes on average five days, takes hikers through thick forests and alpine grasslands, desolate rock-face and brilliant white glaciers.

Views of Kenya and the Masaai prairie, the Crater Highlands, and the Eastern Arc Mountain Range expand from the summit, and unlike other comparable peaks, you don’t need ropes or climbing equipment to make it to the top. As long as you pace yourself and take it easy at high altitudes, you have every reason to think you can reach the summit.

Climbing Mt. Meru is usually skipped in favour of its bigger neighbour Mt. Kilimanjaro to the west, but the sheer beauty and challenge of this three-day climb makes it a must-do for obliging itineraries. While Kilimanjaro offers the chance to scale to the ‘roof of Africa,’ its slightly smaller neighbour is certainly not lacking in adventure.

The early parts of the trail pass through lush rainforests of fig trees and Columbus monkeys high in the canopy. As you climb higher, the cloud forest clears in the late afternoon to reveal striking vistas of Kilimanjaro and the volcano chain on the edge of the Rift Valley. The last distance before the summit passes over the crater ridge – an enlivening experience, and not one for the faint-hearted. Located west of Dar es Salaam, the Udzungwa Mountains rise up from the western edge of the famous Selous Game Reserve. Views from the peaks of the mountains, towards the Selous Game Reserve and the distant Indian Ocean coast, are incredible and well worth the effort.

The Mountains offer you the opportunity to view several species of primates and endangered birds in a beautiful African rain forest. Five distinct trails cover the forests and mountain peaks within the park, and offer varying levels of difficulty for everyone from novices to experienced trekkers. Better yet, there are no roads through the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, so hikers have the area all to themselves.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Crater Highlands offers hikers the chance to experience an extended piece of the country on foot and up-close. Longer hikes start around Ngorongoro Crater and pass through smaller craters and summits on the way, finishing at Lake Natron with a hike to the crater of the active volcano Ol Donyo Lengai.

The trip can be divided into smaller sections, but the full experience of walking through the highlands is really not to be missed.
Rising up from the floors of the Rift Valley, the Crater Highlands form a lush chain of mountains and volcanoes that includes the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the surrounding Masaai tribal lands. Hiking safaris take you from Ngorongoro Crater to the foot of Ol Donyo Lengai and offer you a chance to see some of the most spectacular and stunning scenery in Tanzania.

Exploring this little-visited wilderness is well worth putting in the list of ‘to do’.

PKP. safaris in kenya desk

Kenya Urban Safari – World’s only wildlife capital

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 03 Nov 2012 07:47:00 +0000

Landing at the Jomo Kenyatta international airport in Nairobi Kenya is an experience met with unique thrill and anxiety. Even for those whose purpose of travel has nothing to do with wildlife viewing, there is always unavoidable wildlife encounters right from the first turn to the city.

Located on the south of Nairobi, the airport was in the ancient years a free land where wild animals roomed freely. That is no doubt the reason why up to date, there are occasional wildlife encounters around these area. Not enough, few kilometers from the airport is the world’s only urban national park which offers untold wildlife experience within less than half an hour drive from the city centre.
Welcome to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city, once known as a green city under the sun. Its perfect geographical location has turned it into a world’s cosmopolitan with great opportunities and international interactions. Interestingly, with all the diverse opportunities that Nairobi has to offer, it is unfortunate to note that many lay terribly undiscovered.

For many, Nairobi is either somewhere to arrive and quickly transfer to another destination or for a place for a brief – often reluctant – overnight stop before going home or heading for game parks. In fact, most visitors arriving at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport afterward transfer immediately to nearby Wilson Airport for their short flight to the bush, or pick up their safari van for the overland trip to their lodge or camp. And they do exactly the same in reverse on their way home.

Not only does Nairobi have great hidden treasures, there are also great attractions within reasonable distances that can be explored within a day or two for a reluctant vacationer. Already mentioned above, the world’s only wildlife capital – Nairobi national park. Covering 117 sq km, it is also East Africa’s oldest game park. It is its influence that makes it common to see giraffe or herds of antelope on your drive into the city.
The park is host to number of innovative conservations efforts: Nairobi Safari Walk is Kenya’s new conservation based recreation facility. The combination of skilled and creative landscape design, unique wildlife species and detailed interpretation, renders the facility supreme in tourism and conservation education. With a combination of three simulated, forests, wetlands and Savannahs, you can have an opportunity to learn about their valuable resource and how they can contribute to its conservation.
Adjacent is the Nairobi animal orphanage the oldest animal orphanage in Kenya. Set at the entrance of Nairobi National Park with lush vegetation contrasting against the red dust and clay soil, this educational and training facility is often home to more than 20 different animals and bird species. It is a refuge and rehabilitation centre for wild animals found abandoned or injured throughout Kenya.

David Shedrick wildlife trust is located on the southern part of the park. It is a small flexible and environmentally significance charity that helps save the lives of orphaned Elephants and Rhinos who are ultimately released back into the wild. You have an opportunity to see the orphaned and rescued elephants and rhinos everyday from 1100hrs to 1200noon and participate in feeding program.

Further down is giraffe centre. Managed by African Fund for Endangered Wildlife, the center’s effort is to conserve the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Take part in feeding the thrilling and beautiful giraffes, learn more about them, take a nature walk in the nearby nature trail and stretch your arm in donating to this noble conservation effort.

Also along this area is where you find privately managed Mamba village – a fantastic experience with reptiles of all kinds such as snakes, monitor lizards and large African crocodiles. A few meters is ‘Bomas of Kenya’ where every evening from 1500hrs, you have an opportunity to experience diverse cultural feats and breathtaking acrobatic performances. You can also tour the cultural villages to feel the real taste of African culture.

As for Nairobi itself, this is a city of wonderful restaurants serving fine, locally grown food in convivial surroundings at the affordable prices.
For shopaholics, there can be no finer experience than a visit to the village market. This not only contains an excellent assortment of small shops and lager stores but is also the place to be seen at weekends. You can enjoy large cup of Kenya coffee and a light meal in the plaza. Village market is the probably the best place to buy locally made handicrafts and curios. On Saturdays at the city High Court Parking and on Sunday at Yaya Centre, there are handicrafts markets too.

Nairobi is worth more than just a quick pass by. Karibu Nairobi!

PKP. safaris in kenya desk
Natural Track Safaris.

Natural Track Safaris

Papyrus reeds

THE MORINGA PLANT.

THE FISH.

Tale of African Snakes - affirm the traditional dilemmas

Balsa wood plant.

AFRICAN FISH –EAGLE

ALOE VERA

POKOT COMMUNITY

Ostrich

SNAKES.

TRADITIONAL BEE-HIVE

THE LAKE BARINGO

Hunting Safaris in Tanzania

The Tsavo Cheetah Project (TCP).

Facts about the’ King of the Jungle’

Facts you should know about the Giraffe

ARTICLE TERMITES

African Safari: The world's tallest mammal

The magical Zanzibar…

You can spice up your vacation by visiting the northern tip of Zanzibar called Nungwi which is accessible by road lined with banana palms, mangroves and coconut trees. This is the dhow building capital of Zanzibar Island, so it is a good place to see traditional craftsmen at work.

PKP. safaris in kenya desk Natural Track Safaris.

Uganda – A must visit Top 10 attractions

Mt. Elgon National park – Secluded splendor.

The history of Tanzania – Tale of uncharted territory

Hiking the Ruwenzori – Superb reward, magnificent scenery

Mountain Climbing in Tanzania – the ‘rooftop of Africa’

Kenya Urban Safari – World’s only wildlife capital

PKP. safaris in kenya desk
Natural Track Safaris.