Friday, March 13, 2015

Nature Reserve




This majestic Waterbuck was standing right near the gate as we entered the park. He was so large and regal looking.




This wild beast is an African Water Buffalo and he was perturbed. Before I got to him, I was watching 2 male tourists from afar taunting the buck and getting far too close. I really thought the buck would charge them. Stupid tourists get killed every year because they get out of their cars and get too close to the wildlife.
                                                                                                              


There were so many types of wild game in the park. I don't know the  names of a lot of them but looked on line and think I have them correctly identified.

A lot of different types of gazelle reside in the park. A gazelle is any type of the many antelope species in the genus Gazella. I learned that the word gazelle derives from the Persian word "Ghazal" which means "elegant and quick ".

Impala, eating in the bushes.

I enjoy taking photos of animals that watch me closely.

I keep my respectful distance.


(Defassa) Waterbuck feasting in the forest.

I think this one is called Thomson's gazelle. They depend on short grasses for sustenance.

Impala


I wanted to get a little closer to the water birds. You are probably not supposed to get out of the car and walk around.  The lions are in the forest but I kept my eyes open. though I am sure I couldn't outrun a lion. The rhinos, various mammals, baboons and zebras are in a different area.

  

Friends taking photos.


Breathtaking views from the clifftop.

I love looking down from high above.

I've always been fascinated by zebras and this baby zebra was so cute.

Zebras always seem to quietly & peacefully go about their business.

This little guy was very curious and watched me as I snapped away.

See how well camouflaged these animals are. I think these are young Waterbuck or Impala Antelope.

Hiding in the bushes on the way to the cliffs was this baby Dik dik. Poor thing. I think it lost it's mom.

Joining in with host Eileen at   Saturday's Critters.

Saturday's Critters

17 comments:

Margaret Birding For Pleasure said...

A wonderful selection of animals you saw a the safari park. NO you should not have got out of the car as you can NOT run faster than a lion! Hope your weekend goes well.

John's Island said...

Hi Joyful, What a fascinating set of photos! As you will know, I love Yellowstone Park, and although there are obviously big differences between YNP and LNNP, they definitely share some things like stupid tourists. :-) Yes, every year there are stories about folks getting gored after getting too close to the buffalo. As I've mentioned before, your photos make me want to visit the place. LNNP is certain a destination I need to add to my list of places I want to see. Honestly, I had a hard time picking out a favorite here ... they are all so good ... but I have to go with the mom and baby zebra. Another one ... How about those water birds! How many are out there ... wow, looks like hundreds!!! Great post, thanks so much for sharing. John

TexWisGirl said...

beautiful animals, but always a dangerous idea to get out of your vehicle!

Rajesh said...

This definitely a great place with so many animals to see around .

psychelyn said...

Aww you have captured a lot of amazing wildlife out there. They're all simply fantastic! Those ribbed horns by the way very special, I haven't seen one before.

Unknown said...

Amazing animals! I'd love to go on a safari and watch the animals in the wild. I hope you're having a great weekend.

FAB said...

Fabulous views of the African wildlife.

Anonymous said...

The nature reserve is a great place to get shots of amazing wildlife. YOu have some wonderful images here. Love that little zebra foal.

Lea said...

Great photos!
Have a wonderful week-end!
Lea

HappyK said...

Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. : ) Your photos are fabulous.

Elizabeth Edwards said...

i have always had a fascination with water buffaloes ... they are so cool. always hate when the lions get them though. i would love to see one in person. have a nice weekend, Joyful. i enjoy that name. ( :

nice meeting you through the critter party. take care.

NatureFootstep said...

what a wonderful day. So much to study and enjoy. Love the little Zebra :)

Conniecrafter said...

Wow what a wonderful park, I think I would have been a little nervous about getting out of the car, I bet it was a fun day!
Thanks so much for stopping by my blog and letting me know how your surgery went on your eyes, I have to give this whole process patience.

Ranten said...

So exciting to take pictures of all the wild animals! Wish it was me :-))

Lina Gustina said...

Love your shots on wild animals there. Awesome trip.
Thanks for dropping by.
www.1sthappyfamily.com/2015/03/moccas-smart-face.html

Valerie said...

Wonderful captures. Seeing that many flamingos must have been a spectacular sight. I do like the striking "clothing" of the Thompson's Gazelle - what a handsome creature!

eileeninmd said...

Wow, awesome collection of critters and photos! What a great trip! Thank you for linking up, so sorry I am late with my comment!

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