Rhino in northern Serengeti & Scientific Paper Dedication by Donatus Gadiye

Most of us go on safari hoping to see our favorite animal, rare animals and those that are uniquely striking. Black Rhino's fit those categories and more. They seem to be shy, preferring to browse or occasionally graze by themselves or one other. Mothers are deeply protective and careful with their babies and often are quite challenging to see and spend time with. We had been disappointed to not find one on a long and careful drive through Lerai Forest in Ngorongoro Caldera. We even slowly back tracked through after lunch as we had a tip that two rhinos were grazing in the brush there. None were to be seen on the plains either. So, it was off to the Serengeti where I had not been able to see rhino due to the immense distances and few numbers.

We eventually made it up to the Northern areas, near the rivers famous for the wildebeest crossings on their migration towards the rains. As a traveler on safari with me once said, our eyes were "full". Our hearts too, yet we still wished to spend some time with the elusive rhino. Days passed with no luck, and as we were driving alongside a lush sunken creek, I saw her. She was magnificent and proud, trotting towards the plain on the other side, baby staying close by her side. We crossed and parked at a respectful distance to enjoy the feel of being in the presence of such ancient animals.  I was wondering how many babies she had had and the number three came instantly, simultaneously, and as my thought arose. Having fun with this, I turned to the others in the vehicle, especially to Carol Gurney, our teacher in animal communication on this safari. Curious to find out what she might 'hear'. Without my information given to her, she also came up with this is the third baby for this mama. Engaging fully in the instinctual connection of all senses, or telepathy as some call it, is an interesting and exciting experience.

On the more scientific side, my friend, guide and conservation officer for Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Donatus Gadiye, has written extensively on the forty some rhinos in the Caldera environs. He's familiar with all of them by name and is now onto researching the elephant migratory paths in order to best direct the rangers for their protection. Click for some of his research on Ngorongoro's Black Rhino population. Donatus is dedicating this paper to all of our friends who helped through GenSafaris.

In addition to this large population of endangered Black Rhinos, Ngorongoro holds some of the last huge male elephant 'tuskers'. They are inadvertently given more protection by the many tourist vehicles coming to this wonder of the world. Due to limited funds and vast spaces, it is currently impossible to protect them all. However, if more can be known about the numbers of elephants, their migratory and feeding routes, and therefore their daily locations, then funds and rangers may be allocated to protect them directly. It is important to visit and experience these living wonders of the world as well. If you can, please choose to give to support this endeavor. Funds from individuals and from my safari company (as a result of your tours), are given in this manner: Save the Tuskers of Ngorongoro

One final note: Good news from the Government of Tanzania. As of the first of January, the Tanzanian Government has banned all plastic carrier bags. This is to help protect the environment and to 'green' the environment more fully. Asante sana Tanzania and President John Magufuli!

Simba Connections with Carol Gurney

Greetings fellow travelers and marafiki (friends), GenSafaris traveled recently with Carol Gurney to Tanzania for an Animal Connection & Communication safari. 

Over the years, I've taken a few courses in 'animal communication'/connection skills, experiencing good results and a desire to continue to learn more. Carol eagerly agreed to accompany us in Tanzania as the teacher and off we went with our excited and motivated group. Since she had most experience with teaching through domestic animals and often through photographs, this was a new experience for all. She led us daily through exercises as we came across animals in their natural environment, guiding us with unique and detailed questions and ways to get past our emotional or mental 'blocks'.

One of the lessons (and one of her favorites) is 'Animals as Mirrors'. We did a mini activity of discussing the animal that we are most drawn to on safari. The reflections back to us through this experience were so interesting and spot on. It was easiest to see and understand when hearing the others in the group talk about their experience. The patterns and similar flows between them and their chosen animal blaring through as obvious commonalities.

Although verbal communication (especially about the indescribable undercurrent of all Life) is not my forte, Carol found ways to help me connect and replay back to the group what was felt with the female lioness. She was open and gracious no matter what level we were at, in a non judging, accepting and encouraging way.

The lions and lionesses showed up on safari in magnificent ways. We sat for a time with different hunting prides, with mating pairs and drove slowly with young ones hunting along the roadside. On my final day in the bush, two males and a female had walked by my tent with only their clear tracks to inform me on my walk in the early dawn light. Tracking can be one of the more unusual and interesting ways to expand the experience of safari and imprint it in your senses. We do so at every opportunity and I'm constantly learning more. Join us next time?