Lions Killing Giraffe

As we drive through the entrance of Etosha National Park 8 hours later, Korean #1 points and asks “What's that?” And low and behold peeking out of the bush is our first black rhino! Incredible. Such a prehistoric creature, just hanging out beside the main road. I have a feeling I'm going to like this place! And my first impression was not wrong. The campsite was wellmaintained, and we were lucky to get a shady spot next to the water hole. There was a gorgeous pool and plenty of places to sit and observe the wildlife by the water hole. There were plenty of tourists, but mostly people were considerate and didn't sit on the bench next to you yammering in loud voices – thank goodness! Most of the time was spent sitting at the water hole and taking intermissions to jump in the pool. Elephant, the sentinal giraffe, zebra, springbok, gemsbok (oryx), jackal, and more animals than I can count visit this oasis. There is even a park store complete with ice and Amarula – our days are made!

One night, on the way back from the ablutions in the pitch dark, I heard a very loud roar. I freeze.... Yes, that was a lion. I hurry back to the campsite and find it empty... Oh no... where is everyone? Did they get dragged away by a pride of lion? A quick look shows no blood, so I move on to the waterhole, where a crowd has gathered to watch as a pride of lion proceed to devour a baby giraffe. Pure carnage, but I can't look away. It's incredible. There is a hierarchy of who eats first, and the lion take turns tearing away chunks of giraffe flesh (graphic ay? :) While the lions feast, the jackal linger and attempt to steal a few bites. An amusing game to watch. Meanwhile, at the watering hole – a bull elephant shows up to drink, alongside a few thirsty black rhino. A great day at Etosha and I stayed so long I nearly fell asleep on the bench right next to the hungry lions.... oops! Our next stop is Damaraland, and I think we are all a little apprehensive about wild camping after seeing all of this wildlife! Ah well, off we go!

---