There is a world somewhere between reality and fiction. Although ignored by many, it is very real and so are those living in it. This forum is about the natural world. Here, wild animals will be heard and respected. The forum offers a glimpse into an unknown world as well as a room with a view on the present and the future. Anyone able to speak on behalf of those living in the emerald forest and the deep blue sea is invited to join.
Valentin Pacaut:" Facing a tusker. Kruger National Park, South Africa.
How lucky we were to meet that giant in Kruger National Park! What a feeling to face this tusker! These elephants have become a special target for poachers. The fight continues. "
Marlon du Toit :" An elephant bull contemplates life for a brief moment. The dry, desolate surroundings bears testament to the harsh dry season which at that point in Mana, was establishing a tight grip on the floodplain.
The bull looks tired. His head just seems to weigh a little more than usual. Yes he has to go on, he can’t stop to rest for time won’t wait. It won’t wait for him to muscle up the strength to keep going. That he’s gotta do for himself. Much can be learnt from nature, & much can be taught from an image. "
Daniel Rosengren:" Did you know that these two animals are quite closely related? The little thing in front is a Hyrax and it is the closest now living relative to the elephants among land mammals. Only manatees and dugongs are more closely related to elephants. Apart from their DNA there are several anatomical similarities, though you might not note them at first glance. For example, like elephants, the hyraxes have nails on their feet rather than claws, their small tusks are formed by the incisors (not canines as in most other mammals with tusks), their testicles are hidden in their abdominal cavity and their teats are between the front legs.
Other now living relatives to the elephants are (all in the clade Afrotheria) aardvarks, elephant shrews, golden moles, otter shrews and tenrecs. Photographed in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. "
I have been knowing that for very very long time (70's...), but it still seems incredible for me...
A big moment for me in Amboseli in 2015 and a picture that still sends a few tingles down my spine. I often get asked if I did anything special that day. Did I deserve it? The answer is an emphatic no - I just turned up for work and for 5 minutes I got the reward for all the days you turn up for work and nothing happens. That can be many many days. Most people involved in original film content, whether it be the moving image or stills are not working right now and I bet the majority - like me - are promising themselves to work even harder when they do go back. Batteries recharged and full of drive, I am sure 2021 will be a banner year for creatives. Let’s hope Q4 2020 won’t be too shabby either. "