andreass1s favoriter

A truly amazing encounter with one of the world's most enigmatic ungulates. When I first saw this Pygmy Hippo, it was resting on the ground a few meters off the trail, covered with sweat droplets. After about an hour of waiting, it got up and slowly walked through the forest. It did not appear to mind my presence.

Found it sitting in a clearing while I was scanning for shrikes and owls. It just sat there, about 150m away, not moving other than occasionally turning its head. It was aware of me but quite unconcerned. I even had time to return to the car, collect my scope and camera, return, take photos, and enjoy a prolonged scope view. Eventually some stupid hunter's hound came along the road, barking loudly, and with that it stood up and disappeared into the scrub.

Pelargonium appendiculatum

This Pelargonium was found next to the N7 north of Clanwilliam. Growing in sand together with Lapeirousia anceps - see 3rd photo for extreme mimicry. Help with ID down to species level will be appreciated.