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Wrapping Up Those who
think we have an easy life making wildlife films should try it out for themselves. Easy
and glamorous it is not. But the rewards are immense for the months of 14 hour days
we spend in the camera vehicle to provide an hour of television. 
Eight months of drought in Etosha are followed in December by spectacular seasonal change.
Clouds build up ever-darkening heaps of heavy moisture until, finally, lightning and
thunder signal a burst of torrential rain that transforms the landscape and the Pan.
Suddenly, we were glad of the four wheel drive. |
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Mud, humidity and temperatures of over 40 degrees Centigrade (104 degrees Farenheit) replaced the dust of the dry
season, which had previously been the camera's worst enemy. No longer dependent on water
holes, the animals dispersed widely, so they were more difficult to find and follow. But
magical things happen with the rain. Giant bullfrogs emerge from the ground, where they
have been sleeping, to breed; the springbok give birth; and the once parched land becomes
drenched with the color of fresh green grass, and carpets of yellow flowers. Etosha is
truly a unique and magical place, a vast African Eden. Long may it remain that way. |
