A life has just been lost and its all leading to the beginning of another new life. Both inter and intraspecific competitions have risen and it is because of the carcass which has just become the centre of attraction, leaving the decomposers to feast on it.



On one of my outings recently with clients, I came across the remains of an Impala stomach ripped and left open on the grass. The whole area was covered with grass making it difficult for me to see who was responsible for the kill. The interesting part of it was to watch blowflies as well as dung beetles fulfilling their life necessities and that became the highlight of my trail. We gathered around to discuss and witness the role being played by these tiny creatures in our nature, who travel long distances led by the scent in pursuit of food and breeding sights. The dead matter is broken down to nutrients and amino acids and later taken in by plants who are our main producers that provide to the primary consumer and later to the mystery killer.

Truman Ndlovu - Field Guide