World Image Magazine Issue 31 April 2016 | Page 31
Blue wildebeest do not have the forward facing
horns of the Black wildebeest. Pre orbital glands
beneath the eyes are used to lay scent onto trees and
bushes for intra-species communication.
This lioness at the Goas water hole was nurturing
three very small cubs [Unfortunately not
photographed]
Lions are the only sociable cats, [Felidae] females
bond together to protect cubs. The bonding also
helps to ensure better success when hunting and
capturing large prey needed to sustain them.
Elephant at the Halali water hole.
The Halali water hole is near the Halali camp
[walking distance] and is frequented by many of the
larger mammals that need to drink daily.
The large ears of the elephant make up more than
10% of the entire body surface. They are the main
cooling mechanism. Elephant have no sweat glands
and the dark body colour could result in
overheating.
The flapping of the large ears helps to cool the blood
flowing through the intricate system of veins seen in
the ears. Elephants also like to stand in the shade.
They also cool their bodies by rolling and bathing in
sand, soil and water.
Gemsbok and Kudu at Goas fountain.
Some of the larger mammals like this Black rhino
roll in the pans to cover their bodies in mineral salts
and soil; this helps to cool them in the hot sun and
also keeps parasites away.
Blue wildebeest. [Brindled gnu]
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