This exciting component of the programme was undertaken with Eco-life of the University of Pretoria, as an exciting all in one component of the course. In this letter I have used Fred Smiths pictures which he took on course to give you an idea of what they got up to. Thanks Fred for the use of these great images. There were many varied visits to different sites such as veterinary institutes, and school projects in underprivileged parts of South Africa. In the picture below Fra is befriended by a couple of dogs, one of which appears to like how he tastes! Some of the local children were paid a short visit by the group!
Visits to breeding centres around Pretoria were also conducted, gaining insight into the breeding and rehabilitation of endangered species such as cheetah and wild dog.
After this component Loskop dam was visited too, with boat trips and safaris being part of the course, and some great game veiwing expeditions and guided walks.
A definite highlight for the students was the crocodile capture in the evenings where small crocs were caught, and various research components were undertaken.
Game veiwing trips into the Kruger Park were a hit, with several interesting sightings, and even a night drive opportunity. Creatures such as spotted hyaena, which do not occur at Entabeni at present, were a treat to see.
A visit to Moholoholo was also on the cards with a chance to get up close and personal with some of the wild creatures which are being rehabilitated there.
The opportunity to sneak a picture or two of some rarely seen animals was hard to resist.
They also did a visit to a reptile park in the Lowveld, and finally Fred can tell a giant plated lizard from a crocodile!!!
Then the guys really got rugged, with helicopter game capture as the next component of the programme. This was certainly a big highlight for most of the gang, with Ross getting a serious bulls eye. We now know where Ross wants to be, in the air with a dart gun in his hand, and a charging elephant below….go for it Ross!
All in all I think the gang had a seriously good time, at least judging by the pictures and stories, it was a fun and enriching life experience, which many of them may never do again. Thanks to all of you who made this happen!
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