Pictures

I arrived in Skukuza about a week ago, but have been constantly working since my arrival. Over the last week I have written two 10 page (single space) papers. The first was on the observed relationship between bats and elephants. The second was a field project in which my group investigated the effect of termite mounds on plant defenses, such as thorns. We have finally been given a few days to wind down in which we have been hanging out and working on various other assignments due later in the semester.

Skukuza is the biggest camp in Kruger National Park. There is a main camp that is fully equipped with internet, a HUGE store, laundry facilities, 2 pools, a library, post office, etc. We are able to walk to the main camp in groups of 4, however we are often joined by groups of warthogs, impala, and kudu. We are staying in the Vet camp which is about a 5-10 minute walk away. The accomidations are the nicest so far. I have a single room with a very effective air conditioner. Not everyone has been so lucky, most people are staying in doubles. The weather here has been over 100 degrees just about every day. Typically we sweat all day, play a game of soccer around sundown and then jump in the pool to cool off. It is quite the fantastic schedule.

In a few days my OTS group will be taking part in what I think is going to be the best part of trip. We met with the Veterinarian for Kruger National Park, who happens to be the best in the entire country. He invited us to take part in a buffalo capture on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. During the capture they will dart approximately 20 buffalo, collar them, and perform simple tests. Since the buffalo will be tranquilized we will get to stand right next to them and touch them. I am incredibly excited for this opportunity!

In about a week we will be heading to the city where a large portion of the History and Culture course will take place. This will also be a fantastic time, which I am greatly looking forward to.

I have finally had the opportunity to post pictures. There are two albums. The first album covers Ezemvelo, Hamakuya, and Shingwedzi. The second album has pictures of skukuza thusfar. I hope you all enjoy.

Album 1: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2009793&l=acf25&id=1082700055
Album 2: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2009884&l=9ca7c&id=1082700055

Cheers!