February 3rd 2009 – should I really be in here

Ok, the fact that I am the only volunteer on the programme has started to hit home as I am treated as just one of the team which is great but also means that I am expected to get the jobs done like everyone else. There really is not much one can do about myself doubt with the lions I have just had to get on with it.

I started by bottle feeding one of the cubs which was great and would make everyone who has seen a picture of this very jealous. It really is very exhilarating. After, there was another lion walk (2 a day) and because there was a client walk also planned we were assigned 3 lions with just me and 2 lion walkers in charge. To put this into perspective I was to be an out rider and had to guide the lions back onto the right path and to where the other handlers were waiting each time they went astray. It was fantastic, scary, and the whole walk that lasted 2 hours just flew by.

We were not finished yet because as soon as we got back I had to assist in the meat preparation, cutting up some Giraffe and donkey and then transporting it over to lion cage. This is when I had my worst fears confirmed as 3 handlers went into the cage and then got the 3 of us who had the meat to enter the cage. The lions were all very excited and pacing around us in what seemed a blur of activity. As soon as we were instructed we threw the food and made a hasty retreat to the outside of the cage and watched the lions devour the various legs, and other meat portions. I was very relieved to be on the outside at this time although the lion handlers remained inside.

When I got home I was exhausted and the house bunk beds and other issues regarding the accommodation seem completely irrelevant. Not having any water AGAIN was a real downer though. First decision made, I will wash out at the game lodge.

Finally, word seems to have to gone around about what I am doing here as a couple of other volunteers have requested to join me tomorrow, which I suppose is a good thing although part of me really enjoyed being the only one and feeling part of the team. I will just have to see how it goes but at least I won't be the novice which will be nice.