August brought us a complete mixed bag of weather which is illustrated in the temperature range recorded in August.
This is illustrated in the temperature range recorded in August, specifically a 34-degree differential between the low of 4 degrees Celsius and the high of 38 degrees Celsius, which is significant. The windy weather expected during August did not disappoint as most afternoons brought hot gusty winds. The fire risk index at present remains dangerously high. There was zero rainfall recorded.
Elephant attempts to circumnavigate the electric fence increased alarmingly during the past month. There is daily evidence of their attempts. At the time of writing this report we are approaching the two-year mark of the last breech of the camp fence prior to the commissioning of the new fence structure. I firmly believe those landowners, reserves and conservation areas that are serious about reducing the elephant/human conflict will adopt these measures (or slight variations thereof) as the industry standard.
Prickly pear eradication continued as and when plants were located. In this reporting period a further 16 plants were treated. These plants were identified on Argyle between Bird Hide Road and the main Argyle Road. This exercise will continue as plants are located up to the start of the rainy season.
In early August we received a request to provide security for an elephant re-collaring operation under the Elephants Alive umbrella which was due to take place in the Umbabat the following day. This exercise, was mostly funded by a tertiary institution located in Michigan, USA. It was attended by 15 of their current environmental students and professors. The target animal was a 35–40-year-old bull with a malfunctioning collar. The elephant is named Bambuti. The dynamics of locating, darting, and working on a five-ton animal can be challenging at the best of times, while simultaneously providing a safe environment to work in.
The location of the exercise was on the access road to Argyle Boma which allowed those Members present to inspect the animal up close and together with the educational references provided by the vet, DR Ben Muller, ensured a good experience for those in attendance.
Road work continued mostly on the river crossings. The Wahlberg’s Crossing permanent repair has been delayed.
The new pipeline project for Elephant Pan is completed.
After the numerous requests over the years regarding easier access to view the Mermaid, a decision was taken to open a short road to the banks of the Nhlaralumi to allow for this. Members will notice this new track at the junction of River Road/Lion Alley on Buffelsbed
by Chris Mayes