Today lying under a mosquito net, which was definitely needed, she could hear the birds outside chirping and calling away. In the far distant a cockerel crows, maybe that scrawny thing might end up in the cooking pot tonight. The food had so far had been good, simple fare but very tasty.The cicadas were making one hell of a racket in the outside world which was calling them to get up. Dawn felt she could lie here for ever just listening to the chorus of the wild. A dog barked in the compound where the staff had there small huts, children laughed and squealed in fun as they started their day. Laughter and chatter from outside, others were starting to rise, some maybe having a quick dip in the pool before setting off in their transport. A few more tourist had arrived at the camp last night, all excited at the thought of getting out to see the animals.
"Ready yet? I'm dying for a cuppa" called Nick from outside They would need a hearty breakfast today, as lunch could be a little late in coming. They had a long morning's game drive. As they made their way to the small dining room, Dawn greeted the little kingfisher which had just landed on the tree stump near their tent. The hippos were in good form with the humphs and snorts that were coming from the river. She chuckled at their antics as they walked along the path up to the main camp.
They were soon in their usual seats on the truck. A couple had been going to join them, but at the last minute went with the other group. They only wanted the short morning drive, as they were due to move to another camp later.
The dust was soon streaming out from behind them as they bounced along the familiar tracks. A group of ostrich had been waiting on the road, and it felt like they were there to escort them out into the park.
Today it was like all the animals were up and about. They were soon hanging over the side of the truck, snapping away and noting the different species they could see.
A giraffe with a young one walked past the truck. Bending down to look at them with large dark lustrous eyes, eyelashes fluttering. Dawn was instantly in love with them, such graceful creatures. One had casually walked over to their vehicle and put it's head down to the window.
On the way back, the radio crackled and Thomas was soon seriously talking on the radio. He looked rather agitated and started to drive a little more erratic than usual. "What's wrong, has something happened?" asked Nick leaning forward. "Much trouble, poachers have come across the river, and have killed one elephant for the ivory', and some traps have been found. I do not understand them, they leave so much death around' Two of them have run away, only one driving. We are allowed to shoot if we catch one'
'Oh god,' thought Nick, ' I hope we don't come across them' Thomas had gunned the engine and was making fast tracks along the game trail.
"Maybe we catch up with their lorry and slow him down. The safari park police are on the way.'
Dawn looked anxiously at Nick, " Is this safe? We don't want to get in the way, what happens if he fires?"
"Don't worry, I am sure Thomas knows what he is doing', I am sure he will not put us in danger. This job is his livelihood, he can't go about getting his tourists harmed" said Nick, although he was not too convinced himself.
The radio crackled and Thomas picked up. He talked for awhile and then turned to them.
"The police caught up with the driver, but the boss man got away, one man shot, I fear big trouble ahead. The police did not find the ivory. They will come back".
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Art might look a little slow this week,but I have been filling in and retouching up where needed.
In this heat that we are having I have to watch the pastel. Have visions of it melting away!
If any viewers have any suggestions for the next picture, do let me know.
Have a good week and catch up with me next time.
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