Fence Patrolling around Main Camp

We met up as usual at 7 am today and it was my turn to remain around main camp as the other half of the volunteer group went to follow the collaring crew. We were to be involved in fence patrolling around main camp and we began by loading up the tools and equipment needed for the job.

Such days usually involved anything from pipe/ fencing repair work to using the shovel as well as any other odd jobs in the park. It was apparent why these daily patrols were needed as due to the size of the park, small problems always crop up, sometimes due to the animals destroying fencing and daily observation and maintenance was crucial to ensure the park runs smoothly.

Rangers walking along the fence

We started the day by visiting the waterholes and ensuring these were filled up. Due to the fact that this region of the park has no natural rivers or streams, the water holes are man-made and water is pumped to them from a dam. Daily patrol duties include watching out to see if the pipes and generator are functioning properly as well as making sure there is sufficient water for the animals.

Township view along the fence

It was interested to see that the fencing we would be checking today was separating the park from a township and this was my first close up view of a township. The rangers began by checking the electricity running through the fence at periodic intervals to ensure that the fence was powered. The electricity was sent in pulses through the fence and the meter reading would show a value if all was good.

I had a good view of the township as the bakkie moved on and after a few hours we had our lunch break. I had brought my outdoor stove and we fried some meat on the spot, making a decent meal. Lunch break was typically from 12 onwards and this was a good time to get some rest and a nap.

The heat of the day ensured that we slept soundly, waking up only when a ranger would wake us up. After some more patrolling, we asked the rangers if we could drive by a carcass of a dead elephant spotted and they agreed. The elephant had recently died and it was something new for us to see.

It was rather interesting that the carcass had already bloated up due to the heat of the day and looked all swelled up. The stench of decay was also already present though still manageable enough for us to move nearby for a closer look. The fact that the carcass was far off from the tourist trails meant that it could be left there to naturally decompose and also serve as food for animals such as hyenas.

With Yentl and gang at thirsty herds

After some more checks of the water holes, it was time to head back and I was looking forward to this as it had been a tiring day due to the heat. The students had planned a trip down to thirsty herds and the day ended with a fun evening midst lots of laughter and jokes.