New Dinosaurs, Pangolins, Wild Dogs & More!
“Africa is not just a place; it is an emotion, a state of being where the rhythm of life beats in harmony with the pulse of the wild.”
Welcome to the first of our regular Diaries From Africa in which we will be sharing with you...
- The latest news on conservation projects, wildlife sightings and some fascinating ‘Did you know?’ about Africa
- Introducing you to people who are making an impact and asking for your opinions
- Bringing you new, exciting and interesting books and inspiring artists
- AND recommending a few carefully Selected Destinations and Guides!
Why Chikunto Safari Lodge Should Be on Your African Safari Bucket List
Chikunto Safari Lodge in the South Luangwa, Zambia
Here in the ‘Valley of Leopards’ with the highest concentration of leopard in Africa and the endemic Thornicroft’s Giraffe is an awesome experience waiting for you!
Nestled on the banks of the mighty Luangwa River, Chikunto Safaris offers an unparalleled safari experience in one of Southern Africa's most diverse wilderness areas.
The Luangwa River, a major tributary of the Zambezi, winds through floodplains and oxbow lakes, creating a dynamic and breathtaking landscape teeming with wildlife.
Pangolins Rediscovered In Senegal!
...have been rediscovered after 24 years where a giant pangolin was recently photographed by a camera trap in Niokolo-Koba National Park.
The giant pangolin is the rarest of Africa’s pangolins said to have been around for 80 million years.
Africa Talks Would Like To Thank...
...the Gorongosa Restoration Project who employ more than 1,807 people from communities living near the park.
In 2023 as well as establishing a new pre-school programme for young children, they also established 18 water points serving over 7,000 people.
A NEW Dinosaur Species Found In Zimbabwe!
...the 210 million year-old Musankwa sanyatiensis has been discovered along the shoreline of Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe.
The dinosaur’s genus name, “Musankwa,” was the name of the houseboat scientists used during their expeditions to the research site. In the local Tonga dialect, it means “boy close to marriage”.
It’s species name “Sanyatiensis” alludes to the Sanyati River that flows into Lake Kariba.
This is the 4th dinosaur species discovered in Zimbabwe, a plant-eater it is estimated it was the size of a horse.
If you are interested in exploring this amazing region for more fossils and dinosaurs, we are happy to recommend professional Guides living in the area with intimate knowledge of this fascinating subject.
Must-Read Books on African Wildlife and Conservation:
Tracker Manual
by Alex van den Heever, Renias Mhlongo, Karel Benadie & Ian Thomas
A practical, detailed and richly illustrated manual to the region’s most common animal tracks and signs in Southern Africa.
Sharing decades of expertise on the ground, the authors have compiled a superb, detailed and well illustrated guide to the most common tracks and signs.
The Unravelling
by Michael Chalk
History comes alive in this ‘factual’ novel.
Written with a deep knowledge and understanding of the changes in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe during the 1970-1980's, The Unravelling gives, through an array of different characters, an unbiased account of those turbulent days.
Will This Help Wild Dogs in Africa?
Scientists at the Institute for Breeding Rare and Endangered African Mammal, in collaboration with the Mammal Research Institute, freezing sperm from genetically diverse males for artificial insemination.
This is intended to bolster genetic diversity, especially for survival in fragmented habitats and well as create a stronger resistance to disease.
Unlock the Secrets of Africa’s Wildlife with an Expert Guide:
We would like to introduce you to professional - and of course very experienced – guide LANCE YOUNG of Batoka Adventures.
When not at his favourite places fishing with guests, or tracking in the bush, he is leading tours in Namibia, Cape Town and the adventure centre of Victoria Falls.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Africa's vibrant natural history and ongoing conservation efforts continue to captivate and inspire.
From the rediscovery of the giant pangolin in Senegal to the unveiling of a new dinosaur species in Zimbabwe, these discoveries highlight the continent's rich biodiversity.
Conservation projects, like the Gorongosa Restoration Project, and scientific advancements, such as the efforts to preserve wild dogs' genetic diversity, underline the importance of protecting Africa's unique wildlife.
Stay tuned for more insights and updates in our future diaries, and join us in celebrating and preserving Africa's incredible natural heritage!
Until next time - Go Well and be Faithful to Nature
Lesley & Ian Thomson
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