#defassa

[inatungulates]

Defassa waterbuck Kobus defassa

Observed by rafawu, CC BY-NC

[naturenestsafaris]

Rwanda Gorilla Safari: A Superb Opportunity To View The Mountain Gorillas

Little and compact, Rwanda is overflowing with untamed wildlife, amazing national parks, and superb scenes. The gorilla-chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda gives you an extraordinary chance to explore the national treasure. How to catch a glimpse of the typical safari creatures? Embarking on a Rwanda gorilla safari tour is imperative

Trekking to see chimpanzees and gorillas is without a doubt a feature of the Rwanda gorilla safari tour. It ensures a close encounter with the primates present in the various national parks and jungles. It is an immersive experience.

This remarkable journey will transport you to the picturesque savannah reserve in Rwanda. It is where you will encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, buffalos, zebras, lions, black and white rhinoceroses, panthers, giraffes, and an abundance of antelope species such as topi, impala, and defassa waterbuck.

Rwanda boasts three primary wildlife destinations: Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and Akagera National Park. All of them are home to a wide range of fauna. Among these, Rwanda stands as one of the three countries where endangered mountain gorillas can be found. Observing these magnificent creatures in their native environment is an incomparable wildlife encounter. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to track habituated chimpanzees and golden monkeys, similar to the thrilling gorilla trek. Rwanda's diverse habitats provide a sanctuary for numerous species, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, hippos, giraffes, zebras, leopards, crocodiles, and over 600 bird species.

Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its diverse population of mountain gorillas, with several hundred individuals residing there. The park offers the opportunity to observe a dozen habituated gorilla groups, and a total of 96 tracking permits are issued daily for this purpose. In addition to gorillas, the park is home to various other wildlife species such as the golden monkey, elephant, buffalo, giant forest hog, bushpig, bushbuck, and black-fronted duiker. Bird enthusiasts will find around 200 bird species, including 16 Albertine Rift Endemics, although birdwatching logistics can be challenging in this area.

Nyungwe Forest National Park, on the other hand, boasts the highest level of biodiversity in Rwanda. It safeguards over 1,050 plant species and supports a rich array of wildlife, including 85 mammal species, 310 bird species, 32 amphibian species, and 38 reptile species. Among the park's highlights are its thirteen primate species, such as chimpanzees, Ruwenzori colobus monkeys, L'Hoest's monkeys, and various other monkey species. Nyungwe is also renowned as a premier destination for forest bird watching in Africa, attracting dedicated birdwatchers from around the world.

Akagera National Park is a traditional African savannah reserve where visitors have the opportunity to spot the Big Five. While buffaloes and elephants are commonly sighted, leopards are frequently observed during night drives. The presence of lions and black rhinos is also steadily increasing. In addition to these magnificent creatures, the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife including Maasai giraffes, Burchell's zebras, warthogs, olive baboons, vervet monkeys, hippos, impalas, Defassa waterbuck, bushbucks, common duikers, elands, topis, Bohor reedbuck, oribis, roan antelopes, klipspringers, and the elusive semi-aquatic sitatungas. Night drives often offer sightings of spotted hyenas, genets, civets, white-tailed mongooses, bushbabies, elephant shrews, as well as various species of owls and nightjars.

Combine game viewing in the National Park with its varied wildlife & gorilla trekking in Rwanda could make your journey exciting. It could be a superb opportunity to view the mountain gorillas and experience Africa’s largest protected wetland. To get the best of Rwanda gorilla safari tour including bird watching, local community tour, forest walk & experiencing the wilderness contact Nature Nest safaris at +256 777131912 or visit https://www.naturenestsafaris.com/ today!

[hellodenisestuff]

The Case of the Wacky Wildebeest. 

The African Impact volunteer program for us entails numerous game drives where we record what we see.  Some  days we do transects to count all the animals in a set area, other days we record the big cats, elephants, hyenas, jackals, raptors and  vultures. That information is put into a computer for future research projects by universities, conservation projects, etc.

As we drive we pass Maasai homesteads, children walking to school, folks on motorcycles; often three or four on one motorcycle. (Yesterday a motorcycle almost crashed depositing three children on the ground, the smallest in front of the driver held on and was not tipped off nor was the driver; probably daddy taking the kids to school. Thankfully no one was  hurt. And men and women walking. 

One day as we drove up a tricky little incline over a waterway, there were three men standing around. Our driver stopped to talk with them at the top of the rise in their language, Maa.

Afterwards he told us what was said. Evidently the man was complaining about a dead sheep that was killed by a wildebeest, and not the first time that had happened!

Now, a wildebeest is a ruminant, a peaceful animal only known to occasionally fight with a rival, or an animal trying to harm them or their young. Therefore this was quite unusual. I started thinking about what could cause this. My veterinary training had me thinking was it some disease like Mad Cow disease or a parasite that had entered the brain? I thought it would be very interesting to do a necropsy to examine the brain and see if there were changes.

A few days later I asked our guide/driver, Dickson, if he had heard what happened to the animal. He had reported it to the Kenya Wildlife Service. They had sent rangers out who found the animal and chased it far from that herd of sheep into a more remote area of the conservancy. (Pardamat Conservancy has 64,420 acres, 850 land owners, 0 camps and 0 beds for tourists, and 21 Rangers).

I may never know why such a pastoral animal came to kill sheep which is also a peaceful ruminant. Anyone have any ideas?

This is not a wildebeest. I find I do not have pictures of them because they are so common on the landscape. This is a Defassa water buck who is not all that common. I will take a photo of a wildebeest and post it on a later blog.

[spectacularsafarisuganda]

In #Eastafrica, two types of waterbucks occur; the Defassa waterbuck and the common waterbuck distinguished only by the white pattern on the rump.

The Defassa waterbuck have long bodies and necks, shorts legs and a mane on their necks.

Only male waterbucks have horns curved and vary in length from 55 to 99cm, determined by age.

You can see them in #ugandasavannahnationalpark, #murchisonfallsnationalpark#queenelizabethnationalpark and #kidepovalleynationalpark#ExploreUganda#spectacularsafarisuganda

[zemsafaris]

Uganda Kidepo Valley Tour To Explore The Untamed Beauty Of Uganda

Kidepo National Park is a true gem with geographical diversity, expansive grasslands, rugged peaks, and thriving wildlife. It is a fascinating park located in the eastern part of Africa. The opportunity to view such wildlife can be achieved through the Uganda Kidepo Valley tour. It promises an extraordinary safari adventure and a magical experience to enjoy! Embark on a virtual expedition with a reputed safari operator. They help you embark on a captivating exploration of the unspoiled magnificence that lies within Kidepo Valley National Park.

Are you curious about the activities available in this wildlife sanctuary? Leave worrying to ZEM Safaris as they bring you the top activities in the Uganda Kidepo Valley tour. Some of them include;

Unveiling the Hidden Beauty in this wildlife haven:  

Kidepo Valley National Park is an undiscovered treasure awaiting the most daring travelers. It is renowned as one of Africa's last untouched wilderness areas. Kidepo offers an unmatched safari adventure you will ever experience on the continent of Africa. It is characterized by its expansive grasslands, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife. The park showcases an impressive variety of wildlife and an untouched beauty that has largely been overlooked. Join ZEM Safaris as they help you understand the untamed splendor of Kidepo Valley National Park. Their tailor-made Uganda Kidepo Valley tour lets you enjoy incredible game sightings without the tourist volumes.

Endless game drives.

Kidepo Valley National Park in Uganda is a paradise for true wildlife enthusiasts, offering countless opportunities to explore its stunning wilderness while driving through the park. Visitors can expect to encounter elegant Burchell's zebras, cheetahs, lions, elephants, leopards, Defassa waterbuck, bushbucks, Cape buffaloes, giant elands, Uganda kobs, impalas, spotted and striped hyenas, Rothschild giraffes, topi, warthogs, and more roaming the landscape.

Meet the native Karamojong culture.

Discover the rich history and vibrant cultures of these regions by immersing yourself in their captivating traditional dances. Delve into their distinctive attire, remarkable artifacts, and symbolic representations. Indulge in the delectable cuisine that showcases their unique flavors and traditions. There is so much to explore and learn about their fascinating heritage.

Experience the thrill of bird watching in the Apoka area, Narus, and Namamkwenyi Valleys.

Embark on an exhilarating birding experience at the breathtaking Apoka area, Narus, and Namamkwenyi Valleys. Kidepo Valley National Park boasts an impressive array of over 475 bird species, establishing itself as a premier destination for bird enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and witness the diverse avian life that thrives in this remarkable park. Prime birdwatching spots in Kidepo Valley National Park include the Apoka Rest Camp area, Southern Narus Valley, and Namamkwenyi Valley, where birders can observe colorful birds like the Karamoja Apalis, superb starling, common ostrich, white-faced scops owl, Kori bustard, secretary bird, black-breasted barbet, white-bellied go-away bird, yellow-billed shrike, scarlet-chested sunbird, Nubian woodpecker, African mustached warbler, Rüppell's starling, Clapperton's francolin, black coucal, mosque swallow, broad-tailed francolin, and little weaver.

Embark on a guided bush walk and explore the wonders of mountain hikes.

Signing up for the guided bush walks is the ultimate way to explore the magnificent Kidepo Valley National Park. Venturing into Namamkwenyi, Morungole mountain ranges, and Narus Valley ensures you encounter extraordinary wildlife in the wilderness. Embarking on a Uganda Kidepo valley tour through secluded bushes, lets you spot various animals, and birds and listen to their sounds.

Go on a photography tour

A trip to Kidepo Valley National Park would not be considered finished without capturing the picturesque images it offers. Have the chance to capture the vast savannah plains adorned with acacia vegetation, as well as the valleys, rivers, and freely roaming animals within this park. The most ideal spots for capturing breathtaking pictures in this park are found in the magnificent Narus Valley. It is home to a wide range of wildlife species. All such things will let you know why Kidepo Valley is one of the most outstanding landscapes in the African Continent.

Indulging in the Sunset.

As the day comes to an end, there is no superior method to relax than by indulging in a breathtaking African sunset amidst the captivating scenery of Kidepo. Unwind with a refreshing drink while gazing at the Narus Valley, where the radiant light creates a mesmerizing aura over the grasslands, transforming the sky into a palette of orange and pink shades. Take in the distant sounds of wildlife resonating across the plains as you contemplate the day's escapades. It will let you encounter something genuinely extraordinary in the heart of Uganda's untamed wilderness.

Conclusion:

A visit to Kidepo Valley National Park offers more than just a typical safari. It provides an immersive experience in the wild, taking you back to the untouched landscapes of Africa's history. With exciting encounters with wildlife, fascinating cultural discoveries, and thrilling adventures, the Uganda Kidepo Valley tour guarantees an unforgettable safari. It will make you learn how to explore the untamed beauty of Uganda.

Are you feeling excited to embark on a Uganda Kidepo Valley tour? If yes, why are you waiting for it? Start planning your Uganda Kidepo Valley tour with ZEM Safaris and return home with unforgettable memories to treasure forever!

We’d love to connect with you on social media, and are active on Twitter

[musanatoursandtravel]

Despite its name, the waterbuck is not actually aquatic. Rather, they are frequently found in the vicinity of rivers and lakes. They will often venture into the water to escape predators. Common Name: defassa waterbuck photo by: Richard mwesigwa (at Lake Mburo National Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpQvFroLOqx/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[frenaadventures]

4 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trek and Lake Mburo Safari

After breakfast, you'll leave for Queen Elizabeth Park, which is about 6-7 hours west of Kampala. You will have a stopover at the Equator, where you will be able to stand in both hemispheres and take memorial photos. You will continue to Mbarara town for lunch before heading to Queen Elizabeth National Park. In the afternoon, you'll go on a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which connects the lakes of George and Edward, where you'll see giant hippos, elephants, and crocodiles, among other things. Many bird species can be found near the water's edge. Kazinga Channel View Resort/Engagi (Budget) Bush Lodge for dinner and overnight (Mid Range).

A morning game drive in the park will be organised, during which you will see animals such as lions, leopards, bushbucks, topis, cape buffalos, Defassa waterbucks, elephants, giant forest hogs, Uganda, Kobs, and so on. On the way to Kibale National Park, you'll pass by the impressive "Mountains of the Moon," which can be seen from the road to Fort Portal. Dinner and overnight at Rwteera Safari Park for low-cost travellers or Kibale Forest Camp for mid-range travellers.

After breakfast, you will travel to Kibale Forest National Park to see the primates. The tour will begin at 8 a.m., with a briefing on the rules and regulations for chimp trekking. Following that, you'll begin your search in the forest. Depending on where they are, the exercise will take about half a day. Along the way, you'll see grey-cheeked mangabeys, Phestes, colobus monkeys, and blue and red-tailed monkeys resting or swinging in the tree branches. To ensure that you understand the lifestyles of the primates you will encounter, as well as the plants, insects, and butterflies in this forest, your guide will provide you with informative briefings.

After breakfast, you will depart for a morning nature walk in the forest to observe the rare and unique animal species before returning to the lodge for lunch before departing for your return leg to Kampala. If you want to trip 4 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trek and Lake Mburo Safari, then visit our website.

[rilwansbloggg]

HOW COOKING MAKES US HUMANS

For my third topic for this project, i have decided to write about How Cooking Made us Humans(Stream How Cooking Made Us Human with Professor Richard Wrangham by Bridging the Gaps: A Portal for Curious Minds | Listen online for free on SoundCloud). A conversation between Professor Richard Wrangham who is the speaker and Dr. Waseem Akhtar, the host. I chose this topic because it focuses on Human origin and evolution which is very important because studying our origin provides insights into our biological history and functions. It also highlights how humans have benefited from being able to adapt to their immediate environment.

Some of the lessons learnt from the above conversation about How cooking makes us humans include: (i)Human are incapable of relying on raw wild food because we don't have the digestive capacity for it. (ii)Being able to cook our own food gave us a whole series of new adaptations e.g physiological, behavioral and anatomical. (iii)Human beings started cooking about 250,000 years ago. (iv) Raw food is good for fat people who are looking to lose weight.

The guest speaker, Professor Richard Wrangham (born 1948, PhD, Cambridge University, 1975) is Ruth B. Moore Professor of Biological Anthropology at Harvard University and founded the Kibale Chimpanzee Project in 1987. He has conducted extensive research on primate ecology, nutrition, and social behaviour. He is best known for his work on the evolution of human warfare, described in the book Demonic Males, and on the role of cooking in human evolution, described in the book Catching Fire: How Cooking Made Us Human. Together with Elizabeth Ross, he co-founded the Kasiisi Project in 1997, and serves as a patron of the Great Apes Survival Partnership (GRASP)[1]. Below is a list of some of his research and field experiences:

1968 Oxford Bongo Expedition to Kenya, studying ecology of bongo, Boocercus euryceros, and land management of Cherangani Hills. Numerous small grants. Three months.

Assistant biologist in Kafue National Park, Zambia, studying behavioral ecology of waterbuck, Kobus defassa. Nine months.

1969 Oxford University Expedition to Kenya, studying insectivore ecology at high altitude. Numerous small grants. Three months.

1970-1971 Research assistant in Gombe national Park, Tanzania, studying behaviour of chimpanzees Pan troglodytes. Twelve months.

1971-1973 Research student in Gombe National park, Tanzania, studying chimpanzee behavioural ecology. W.T. Grant Foundation. One Year.

1975 Behavioural ecology of gelada baboons, Theropithecus gelada, in Simien National Park, Ethiopia. Science Research Council. Five months. (This study was funded for three years. It was aborted because of political turmoil.)

1976-1977 Field supervision of primate studies in Rwanda (gorillas) and Kenya (baboons). Two months.

1978 Laboratory studies of primate diets, Cambridge. Bedford Fund, King's College. One month.

1978-1979 Behavioural ecology of vervet monkeys, Cercopithecus aethiops , in Amboseli National Park, Kenya. Science Research Council. Eight months.

1980-1981 Ecology and social organization of Balese and Bambuti people. Ituri forest, Zaire. National Science Foundation, L.S.B. Leakey Foundation. Nine months.

1983 Experimental study of primate feeding behaviour, San Diego Zoo and Los Angeles Zoo. Two months.

1984 Field study of chimpanzee medicinal plants, Gombe National Park, Tanzania; and pilot study of chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, Uganda. L.S.B. Leakey Foundation. Two months.

1986 Chimpanzee field site reconnaissance in western Uganda. Rackham Grant (University of Michigan).[2]

[1] Richard W. Wrangham (Foreword by of In the Shadow of Man) (goodreads.com)

[2] https://www.discoverlife.org/who/CV/Wrangham,_Richard.html

[iihbki3]

Picture of the day: Juvenile Ugandan defassa waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus defassa) in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. National Resistance Movement Liberation Day in Uganda is celebrated on 26 January. https://t.co/oskvUwUV55

[inatungulates]

Defassa waterbuck Kobus defassa

Observed by juliangums, CC BY-NC

[antoinemarchalphotography-blog]

A defassa waterbuck in front of the papyrus swamp in Akagera National Park, Eastern Province, Rwanda #waterbuck #defassawaterbuck #akagera #akageranationalpark #rwanda #africa #wildlife #wildlifephotography #wildlifeplanet #wildlifeaddicts #wildlifeconservation #safari #nature #naturephotography #naturelover #naturephotographer #naturegeography #outdoors #wildlife #nature #outdoors #africanparks #visitrwanda #africageophoto #yourshotphotographer (at Akagera National Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/CTsYc3hqTyI/?utm_medium=tumblr

[lord-allo]

Portraits von Ellipsen- oder Defassa-Wasserböcken

Portraits of Defassa-waterbucks

Kobus ellipsiprymnus

[Serengetipark Hodenhagen]

[rajamuzafarali]

Wikipedia picture of the day on January 26, 2020: Juvenile Ugandan defassa waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus defassa) in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. National Resistance Movement Liberation Day in Uganda is celebrated on 26 January. Learn more.

[zemsafaris]

The Must To Do Activities On A Uganda Kidepo Valley Tour

Kidepo Valley National Park is undoubtedly Uganda's crown jewel for wildlife viewing. Tucked away in the remote northeastern corner of the country, this breathtakingly beautiful park is home to some of Uganda's rarest animal species. Such encounter is not even found in more popular destinations like Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Are you considering embarking on an unforgettable safari to Kidepo Valley National Park? Are you in search of remarkable activities to partake in during your visit? ZEM Safaris has the answer to your search! They are one of the leading tour operators based in Uganda widely renowned for its premier quality and diverse trips. They offer you a wholesome and distinct insight into the wonders of the amazingly diverse landscape, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the country.

Kidepo Valley National Park is a remote, secluded, and challenging-to-reach gem with much to offer visitors beyond its exceptional wildlife. The rugged landscape brings the true African wilderness to life, and travelers attest that the effort to reach this park is well rewarded with an unparalleled experience. Whether you are a birder, wildlife enthusiast, adventure seeker, or nature lover, Kidepo Valley is perfect for you. The park provides opportunities to observe incredible birds and animals. You can immerse yourself in untouched wilderness, and revel in its natural splendor. Leave worrying to ZEM Safaris as they bring you the best activities in Kidepo Valley National Park. A few of the many include.

Endless game drives.

Real wildlife enthusiasts should visit Kidepo Valley National Park, where they can explore the stunning wilderness while encountering countless animals along the way. The Uganda Kidepo Valley tour lets you drive through the park. It provides opportunities to see elegant Burchell's zebras, cheetahs, lions, elephants, leopards, Defassa waterbuck, bushbucks, Cape buffaloes, giant elands, Uganda kobs, impalas, spotted and striped hyenas, Rothschild giraffes, topi, warthogs, and more.

Meet the native Karamojong culture.

Visit the nearby Karamojong community to learn about their rich history and culture through their lively traditional dances, distinctive attire, fascinating artifacts and symbols, and flavorful cuisine.

Try out birding. 

Kidepo Valley National Park is home to over 475 bird species, making it one of the top birding destinations in the country. The best areas to spot colorful birds include Apoka Rest Camp, the Southern Narus Valley, and Namamkwenyi Valley. Birdwatchers have the opportunity to observe various bird species such as the Karamoja Apalis, superb starlings, common ostrich, white-faced scops owl, kori bustards, secretary birds, black-breasted barbets, white-bellied go-away bird, yellow-billed shrikes, scarlet-chested sunbirds, Nubian woodpecker, African mustached warblers, Ruppell's starlings, Clapperton's francolin, black coucal, mosque swallow, broad-tailed francolins, and little weavers.

Go on guided bush walks and mountain hikes to explore the natural surroundings.

The best way to explore the stunning Kidepo Valley National Park is to join guided bush walks through the Namamkwenyi, Morungole, and Narus Valley areas. These wilderness treks with armed park rangers provide unforgettable encounters with abundant wildlife. Departing from Apoka, the park's headquarters, hikers follow secluded trails, tracking animals and birds by sight and sound through the remote bush.

Go on a photography tour

A trip to Kidepo Valley National Park is not complete without photographing its sweeping savannah plains dotted with acacia trees, stunning valleys, seasonal and permanent rivers, and roaming wildlife. The ideal photo spots in the park include the breathtaking Narus Valley, home to numerous animal species. Kidepo Valley offers some of the most spectacular scenery on the African continent.

To fully experience the wilds Uganda Kidepo Valley tours are often paired with rhino tracking in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. It will give visitors the chance to see the big five game animals. Adding Murchison Falls National Park lets you experience the boat cruises to the base of the breathtaking falls, game drives, chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest, and guided nature walks. For extra adventure, travelers can also hike Mount Elgon National Park or the Sipi Falls area as well.

We’d love to connect with you on social media, and are active on Twitter

[ggungabyfish]

Wikipedia picture of the day on January 26, 2020: Juvenile Ugandan defassa waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus defassa) in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. National Resistance Movement Liberation Day in Uganda is celebrated on 26 January. https://ift.tt/2RpLK5G

[frenaadventures]

4 Days Queen Elizabeth and Kibale Trip – Frena Adventures

Day 1: Kampala/Queen Elizabeth & Boat Cruise

After breakfast, you'll go for Queen Elizabeth Park, which is about 6-7 hours west of Kampala. You will have a layover at the Equator, where you will be able to stand in both hemispheres and snap memorial shots. You will continue to Mbarara town for lunch before heading to Queen Elizabeth National Park. In the afternoon, you'll go on a boat ride on the Kazinga Channel, which connects the lakes of George and Edward, where you'll see gigantic hippos, elephants, and crocodiles, among other things. Many bird species can be seen near the water's edge. Kazinga Channel View Resort/Engagi (Budget) Bush Lodge for dinner and overnight (Mid Range)

Day 2: Kibale Forest National park

A morning game drive in the park will be organized and you’ll get to see animals like lions, leopards, bushbucks, topis, cape buffalos, Defassa waterbucks, elephants, giant forest hogs, Uganda, Kobs etc. En route to Kibale National Park, you’ll come across the impressive sight of “Mountains of the Moon” which you can see on the road to Fort Portal. Dinner and overnight either at the Rwteera Safari Park for budget travelrs or Kibale Forest Camp for mid-range travellers.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking/Bird Watching

You will, after breakfast, head to Kibale Forest National park to view the primates. The tour will start at 8 am and you’ll receive a briefing about the rules and regulations for chimpanzee trekking. Following that, you’ll set off into the forest in the search. The exercise will take about half of the day depending upon their location. Along the way, you’ll be able to spot animals like the grey cheeked mangabeys, Phestes, colobus, the blue and red tailed monkeys resting or swinging in the branches of the trees.

Day 4: Nature Walk/Kampala City

You will have breakfast and leave for a morning nature walk in the forest to observe the uncommon unique animal species and return to the lodge for lunch before setting off on your return leg to Kampala. If you want to 4 Days Queen Elizabeth and Kibale Trip, then visit our website.