December, the month of extreme heat, humidity and lots of sunshine! In the beginning of the month, the elephants were spending a considerable amount of time in the area between the Villa and Tented Camp. They moved along the Mduna, however, spent the majority of the month in the north-eastern area of the Reserve, near Emzukhulu Pan and old cutline. They then moved back along the Mduna and I was privileged on Christmas Day to see them across the valley from my house. They have provided great viewing, yet again. One can watch with ease the interaction within the herd, for example, the younger elephants play-fighting, which I never experienced a few months ago. The guides even commented on their excellent sightings.
I wrote a review for Rob Slotow, my supervisor, which outlined the data I have collected and areas I need to focus on collecting data. It was clear from the report that I need to collect more feeding data. This will improve the reliability of my outcomes. I have focussed on collecting more feeding data, and have been relatively successful in the last two months. One must remember that every time an animal is sighted there is no definite possibility that it will be feeding. However, with the animals becoming more relaxed, and with me spending time with the animals when they are sighted, it has increased my chances for them to either starting or resuming feeding.
Tim and Chris left in the beginning of the month. They were very interested in all aspects of conservation and game management and we have worked very well. My next volunteer arrives in February.
A Team Photo in the Suzuki
I have updated Alan's backup CD's, Thanda rainfall, and Wildlife Department Time Off and Overtime sheets. I have updated the spatial data, feeding, and dung sheets and samples. I still need to enter the behaviour sheets. Season's greetings to all, I am really looking forward to 2005!
I wrote a review for Rob Slotow, my supervisor, which outlined the data I have collected and areas I need to focus on collecting data. It was clear from the report that I need to collect more feeding data. This will improve the reliability of my outcomes. I have focussed on collecting more feeding data, and have been relatively successful in the last two months. One must remember that every time an animal is sighted there is no definite possibility that it will be feeding. However, with the animals becoming more relaxed, and with me spending time with the animals when they are sighted, it has increased my chances for them to either starting or resuming feeding.
Tim and Chris left in the beginning of the month. They were very interested in all aspects of conservation and game management and we have worked very well. My next volunteer arrives in February.
A Team Photo in the Suzuki
I have updated Alan's backup CD's, Thanda rainfall, and Wildlife Department Time Off and Overtime sheets. I have updated the spatial data, feeding, and dung sheets and samples. I still need to enter the behaviour sheets. Season's greetings to all, I am really looking forward to 2005!
Kirsten Canter