I have been really excited by what I have been doing here, not only the fact that I am getting to work with lions but am part of a project that if successful will help to create an on-going supply of lions ready for release into the wild. The dedication and commitment of the team is quite something to behold, but you have to remember that as this is a self funded project which means that the client walks are integral to the long term success and even survival of the project. So when required client walks it is.
Today started with feeding the cubs, who are growing at a phenomenal rate and do not seem to be the babies that I first met. The wound in one of the cubs is still there but does seem to be getting better albeit slowly. I really enjoy being with these little ones as I am able to be part of their first human contact and am therefore not behind all the other team in gaining their trust.
After breakfast I had to leave the reserve for town and the nearest pharmacy and sort out my mosquito bites. After acquiring half the shops supply of insect repellent and anti itching cream I felt that I had achieved a good job ad could look forward to the rest of the day without worrying about the itching. May be it is age but I have no embarrassment in walking around with ankles covered in cream or maybe it is just needs must.
When I got back to camp it was time for the afternoon walk, and I was assigned to the client walk with some Aussie doctors. As we arrived for the intros the radios went into melt down as messages of panic from various team members went round about a buffalo getting close to the lion cage just as the lions had been let out. It was strange being on the inside and having to pretend that all was ok with the clients when we were not even sure if the walk would go ahead at all. With Richard, the project co-ordinator, restoring order and shots from the ranger sounding in the distance we proceeded as if all was normal. Thankfully the buffalo had been moved and lions arrived as if nothing at all had happened. What happened next amazed me. The lions were amazing and performed as if to order, whether this just playing with each other, climbing trees or posing for photos it was just fantastic to watch. The highlight though was the chase as a herd of Impala ran around us and the clients all went into hunting mode and headed for the herd at great pace. A truly wonderful sight.
This afternoon has had to be the highlight for me so far and I am realistic to know that it won't be like this tomorrow.
The evening though proved to be most frustrating as the Internet cafe for once had a good signal but as sods law would have it Sally and the girls were not home. I just hope the signal holds and I get another chance to Skype later.
Finally, the mosquito cream also seems to be working which is just fantastic and has given me as much pleasure as the afternoon with the lions.
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