The story of the Hippo
#KeWildlife – Story 8
In ancient Greek, the word hippopotamus means river horse, which is undoubtedly an unlikely name for this enormous animal. While we’re on the subject of size, a hippo weighs 4,500 kilograms making it the third largest mammal on earth after whales and elephants respectively.
Hippos cannot swim which is surprising because they spend most of their time submerged in water with only their eyes above the surface. But perhaps you’d like to know why.
Paukwa?
There was a time when only animals roamed the earth. Africa was their main home and they lived amongst each other in peace. There were the animals of the land that ate the dead and others that are the leaves and branches of trees, then there were the animals of the water that ate little fish and reeds.
The land animals were known for their tough skin that would help them whenever the sun was at its peak. Although the heat would get uncomfortable, the sun rays never affected their skin. All but the hippopotamus.
The hippo’s skin lacked the strength to withstand the sun’s rays and as a result, every sunny day the hippo would be the most uncomfortable. For this reason, its skin became thinner with each passing day.
One day the hippo decided he wanted to cool his burning skin in the water and so he staggered to the nearest watering hole and asked the animals of the water if he could stay in the water with them.
“No!” the other animals said in unison.
“If we let you stay in the water with us, you will eat all our food and we won’t have enough,” said one of the water animals.
“I promise if you let me stay in the water to cool my skin, I will never touch your food. I will still eat my leaves from the land.”
The water animals were hesitant but they decided that they would only allow hippo to stay in water when he needed to cool from the sunshine. Hippo agreed to their terms and said that he would always open his big wide mouth so that they could see that he had truly not eaten the water animals’ food.
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It’s interesting when you think about it. Today if you see a hippo’s wide mouth, it isn’t just showing the other animals that it has kept its word, rather it is warning its observer to stay away from it. With just one snap, a hippo’s canines can kill a human being. This makes it one of Africa’s most dangerous animals.
The hippo is often seen on land at night when it goes out in search of food. As for their inability to swim, these mammals stay by the edge of water bodies, where they can stand but stay in water to prevent their skin from the sun’s rays. They have the ability to close their noses and ears to prevent taking in the water, and can hold their breath for up to seven minutes.
The Tsavo East National Park, Meru National Park and Sibiloi National Park host this magnificent species and are accessible all year.
The story of the Rock Hyrax
#KeWildlife – Story 7
It’s said that over fifty million years ago before evolution took its toll, there were few species roaming the earth. As time went on and seasons changed so did the offspring of the species, and other species were born while others died or became extinct. Evolution of species resulted in the variety we have today.
One particular species that is common today is the Procavia capensis or Rock Hyrax or Pimbi in Kiswahili.
The rock hyrax is native to over 25 African countries and is the elephant’s closest living relative. One might wonder how a rabbit look-alike is related to one of the world’s largest mammals. Well, hear it from us, the hyrax and the elephant are relas!
Although the rock hyrax is small in nature, evolution history claims that the birth and death of new species from common ancestors plus the seasonal change is what caused the difference in appearance. Additionally, interactions with varying environments played a big role in affecting the species phenotypes – the outward appearance.
The order in which hyraxes and elephants evolved remains unclear because of the mitochondrial, molecular, and other genetic evidence points in more than one direction.
The rock hyrax is so small, it weighs slightly more than - if not the same as a newborn – between 2 and 5kgs to be exact. It has no tail but its feet have a rubber-like texture that helps them climb steep rock surfaces and trees. Speaking of rocks, that’s where this type of hyrax is mostly found – on the dry rocks of the savanna. Just travel to Taita Taveta county and you will spot a cluster of rock hyrax without even trying. They’re known to be in plenty within both the Tsavo East and Tsavo West National parks.
You may, however, need to carry a pair of binoculars because for a small animal, the hyrax moves at 18kph – but if you do come across a group lounging on a rock, they could be waiting for their cousins, the elephants, so that they can possibly hold a family meeting? We can’t be certain.
The story of the Zebra
#KeWildlife – Story 6
There was a time when there were many donkeys. And when we say many, we mean that after every kilometre you would come across at least fifteen donkeys. These animals were valued by porters who would use their donkeys to carry goods over long distances every day.
Day in and day out, the donkeys toiled, but their owners – the porters – never appreciated them or let them get enough rest.
On one sunny day as a group of donkeys crossed each other’s paths, they stopped to talk.
“I’m very tired from all the work I do,” one donkey said.
“Me too,” said another. “My master never appreciates me.”
“All I want to do is relax and eat the grass without having to work ever again!” said another donkey.
And all the donkeys present agreed that they too wanted to stop working.
“But how can we get to relax when every time a porter sees a donkey, they make us work?” asked the first donkey.
“Maybe we should visit the wise, old man. He might know how to help us.” responded another.
That afternoon, as most of the donkeys were busy at work, two of the donkeys went up a green hill to visit a wise, old man who lived there. The wise, old man was respected because he cared and was kind to every man and animal. The two donkeys explained to the wise, old man their problem and the man listened and sympathized with the donkeys.
He scratched his head and bit his fingernails as he pondered on solution ideas.
Finally, “I have an idea!” the man exclaimed after a while.
“Can you help us?” asked one donkey.
“Yes I can, I’m going to get some of the paint that I have in my house and make you look less of a donkey. But once I paint you, you will never look like a donkey again.”
The donkeys brayed in excitement for they were tired of being donkeys.
The wise, old man brought out two pots of paint; one was filled with black paint and the other had white paint. He began painting the two donkeys, coating them first with the white paint and thereafter incorporating the black in form of stripes that cut through the white.
When he was done, the donkeys looked beautiful!
“You are no longer donkeys, but what shall you call yourselves?” the wise, old man asked when he was through.
The donkeys thought, and so did the old, man. “I have another idea,” said the wise, old man. “I could call you zebras!”
*
When the new zebras returned to their donkey friends, they looked less like donkeys and more like new animals. No porter asked them to work – and when the other donkeys saw this, they scrambled up the hill to the wise, old man’s house asking him to paint them too.
The wise, old man brought out his pots of paint and one by one he painted the donkeys that came. But as the day progressed, more donkeys lined up and he became tired. He started painting slower than when he began. The more donkeys that came, the impatient they got as they stood in line. When a ruffle began in the queue, one of the donkeys stepped too close to the wise, old man’s pot with white paint and the pot broke. The paint spilled all over.
“I have no more white paint!” exclaimed the wise, old man. “You have to go back as you are.”
So the donkeys that had been transformed to zebras remained as beautiful, while the impatient donkeys remained as they were and continued to labour under their porters’ schedules.
Kenya’s beautiful zebras draw in attention from miles away. You can find them grazing and lounging, enjoying the benefits of their beauty at Hell’s Gate National Park, Meru National Park and Amboseli National Park.
The story of the Rhinoceros
#KeWildlife – Story 5
Allow us to use your mind for a moment.
You are on a safari. The sun sets in the horizon and the red and orange colours have permitted the sky to look like an artist’s masterpiece. In the distance, right by a lone Acacia tree is a black-grey large animal standing silently. The wind rustles the leaves above its head and in that moment, there is complete serenity.
Wonderful, wasn’t it?
Standing at 170cm and weighing approximately 1,400 kgs, it’s no wonder the Black Rhino is one of our most outstanding animals. Having coined the term ‘Rhinoceros’ from the Greek word ‘Rhino’ to mean ‘nose’ and ‘ceros’ meaning ‘horns’, this large mammal is probably most unique for its facial features. The black rhino has two horns; one that sit above its mouth and the other between its ears.
But let’s go back to this animal’s weight – black rhinos run on their toes, which essentially goes to show their ability to carry a lot of mass. Even more interesting is the fact that a rhino can charge at 55kph if it senses something that leaves it uncomfortable. That’s a powerful tackle!
There are five types of rhino and the black rhino is the third largest of the bunch. Furthermore, the black rhino is actually a shade of dark grey and not black as its name suggests. One thing we’re certain of is that its exact colour can be spotted better up close but keep the thought that these mammals have excellent hearing but horrible eyesight, so if you aren’t careful, you could be past tense in a matter of seconds.
The black rhino’s lifespan averages between 30 and 50 years. These rhinos aren’t known to be as proactive as scavengers but they do love a good dose of plant nutrients and can eat up to 220 plant species throughout their life. They’re most commonly found eating branches, shoots and sometimes the plant’s fruit.
Kenya’s oldest black rhino, Solio, died at 42 of old age at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. She is definitely a rhino to remember because she was one of the few that didn’t fall to poaching. Speaking of poaching, Kenya’s black rhinos are critically endangered! Poachers are often after their horns that are then shipped to other countries where there is the common belief that they can cure certain illness. Needless to say, the hunger to claim these horns has resulted in a major population decline throughout Africa, and it is upon us to rally with the organizations such as Save The Rhino International to save this animal.
Back to the sunset we took your mind to earlier.... need to see that in real life? Black rhinos at Aberdare National Park, Tsavo East National Park and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
The story of the Nile Crocodile
Story 4
A long time ago on a riverbank by a forest, a monkey and a crocodile formed a great friendship. The monkey would visit the crocodile often and when she came, she would bring plenty of fruit from the forest for the crocodile to eat. In turn, the crocodile would bring the monkey the largest fish he could find from the depths of the river. He would also take his friend on rides along the river where other crocodiles wouldn’t be spotted for most crocodiles loved to eat other animals.
And their friendship continued to grow.
One day Mr. Croc, as he was called, met a female crocodile, and the two instantly fell in love for no male crocodile can live alone. As they talked, Mr. Croc told his lady about his monkey friend and the kind gestures they’d show each other. Little did Mr. Croc know that his lady was a very greedy crocodile who wanted to eat the monkey because she’d heard that monkeys taste delicious.
After supper one evening she devised a plan to get Mr. Croc to bring her his monkey friend.
“My dearest, do you love me?” she asked.
“Of course I do,” he replied. “I have never met anyone as beautiful as you!”
“But you know I could be more beautiful,” she said.
“Yes. And with each day your beauty grows.”
“Thank you, but I could be more beautiful in an instant. You know what can make that happen?”
“Tell me my dear,” responded Mr. Croc.
“The heart of a monkey. Will you get me a monkey’s heart to enhance my beauty?”
“I would but I don’t know where to get one.”
“How about your friend who brings you fruits from the forest?”
“But he’s my friend, I wouldn’t do that.”
Mr. Croc’s lady sulked and cried all night until eventually he agreed to bring her his friend’s heart.
The following morning, he swam to the river bank with a serious face. When the monkey saw him, she was elated but noticed that her friend wasn’t in a good mood.
“What’s wrong Mr. Crocodile?” she asked.
“Nothing. Let’s go for a ride.”
The monkey hopped on Mr. Crocodile’s back and off they went. When she realized that they were swimming further into the river, she asked Mr. Croc why he was taking her so far. He told her the truth and she responded, “Why didn’t you tell me earlier that you wanted my heart? I keep it behind a tree at the edge of the river bank. We can go back and get it if your lady really wants it.”
At that, Mr. Croc was so excited, he took the monkey back to the riverbank. When they arrived, the monkey jumped off and turned to him.
“My heart is not here,” she said, “And I am angry at you for wanting to let your lady kill me. We are no longer friends.”
Mr. Croc swam away, sad that he had lost a friend and was about to disappoint his lady.
*
While the story teaches a lesson or two about boundaries, we could also note that it’s rare to find such a friendship in the reality of the animal kingdom.
In Kenya we have the Nile Crocodile; one of three African crocodiles. This species is the largest freshwater predator and is among the world’s most deadly predators. This amphibian is also known to eat other crocodiles that are in its path and is further reputed as a man eater.
Want to see Nile crocodiles and examine their scales even closer? We wouldn’t advise you to tread near them, but you can find them at Central Island National Park in Turkana and at the Sibiloi National Park.
The story of the Spotted Hyena
#KeWildlife – Story 3
Crocuta crocuta. The name has a nice ring to it.
If we’re to look into hyena history, this animal is probably the best example of wildlife marked as gluttonous, selfish, and even foolish. The most famous of this species has to be the famous three that were brought to international screens in 1994.
Shenzi, Banzai and Ed.
Do these names ring a bell? Well perhaps you remember their leader Scar? the brother of Mufasa?
But we digress....
Crocuta crocuta is the other name given to spotted hyenas or laughing hyena or simply fisi for the Swahili speakers. With a figure that’s somewhere between a small bear and a dog, these sandy-grey furred animals are commonly identified through their black spots. They are significantly different from the stripped and brown hyenas. But are similar in that they do bark in form of laughter and can be heard from miles away.
Although spotted hyenas are plenty at night, a fair number can be spotted in the bright of day. A fascinating aspect about these animals is they are one of the most formidable and well-organized predators within the animal kingdom. They hunt in teams to capture larger animals such as wildebeests and gazelles. They are responsible for scouting (and killing) 95% of their meals and when confronted by other predators, they ferociously fight back. This is contrary to stripped and brown hyenas that feign death when found in a similar situation.
The spotted hyena’s pack is led by a female hyena. The females are larger than the males, more aggressive and thus, dominant. The largeness of their hearts allows sufficient oxygen flow and is the result of their ability to endure a hunt for several hours. As for stumbling upon abandoned carcasses, these animals can smell the decaying flesh of an animal from as far as four kilometres away. If the supply is in plenty, a single hyena can eat even 15 kilograms of meat.
Fisis live in clans and mark their territories through droppings or substances secreted from their anal glands but the spotted hyena’s display much communism in that they live in groups atop high lands where they can easily spot other clans that may want to intrude.
There’s a common assumption that the reason humans despise hyena’s so much is because of their recurring habit of trespassing into human homesteads to kill and carry away the domestic animals... but hyena’s got to eat right?
It’s always thrilling seeing the crocuta crocuta roaming around or possibly in action. Locally, these carnivores can be found at the Aberdare National Park, Tsavo West National Park and Nairobi National Park.
The story of the Bushbuck
Have you ever heard of the antelope species Tragelaphus scriptus? Or lets throw down a bigger challenge...can you say Tragelaphus scriptus?!
With dark brown fur the male Bushbuck exudes confidence. The female Bushback on the other hand boasts of a lighter brown coat, but shares one aspect of her outward appearance with her male counterpart; they have white dots along their sides that tread in no specific pattern. If colour isn’t the easiest way for an observer to identify the gender of this African mammal, perhaps the male Bushback’s horns provide more clarity. All in all, this mammal is a beatiful sight to behold!
Also called the Imbabala, from the Bovidae family we have to agree that Bushback is a more matter of fact if not really cool name. The name is also synonymous with the animal’s whereabouts – the bush. Did you know this antelope species can only be found in Kenya and 11 other African states? Goes to show that we are indeed a land of hidden gems in form of wildlife.
If you’re looking to spot a Bushback on a safari, you need to keep a keen eye out because these animals are known for their shy nature and they tend to make good use of thickets and within forests. Naturally nocturnal, these animals are known to take advantage of the darkness when they are least likely to be disturbed. In the nightime however, they roam freely and even close in on human settlements which we believe is their way of playing hide and seek with us.
But what’s most striking about this mammal is its solitary nature. Nature’s true introvert.. Bushbacks do not move around in pairs or as herds. For this reason, male and female Bushbacks only come together for the purpose of reproduction and thereafter go their separate ways after a few hours. If the female does get pregnant, the gestation period lasts approximately six months and when her calf is born, she goes to great lengths to ensure its safety against predators by cleaning and hiding it. Although it isn’t known when mother and calf go separate ways, the Bushback’s overall lifespan estimates to 12 years.
Looking to spot this #KeWildlife on a future safari? They can be found at The Aberdare National Park, Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, Chyulu Hills National Park and Mount Kenya National Park.
The story of the Olive Baboon
#KeWildlife – Story 1
It’s no surprise that the strangest part of a baboon is its bright pink bottom. Which begs the question, how did it get that way?
Well...
Hadithi Hadithi?
A long time ago the baboon deemed itself the guardian of all watering holes such as dams, lakes and swamps. They were angry looking animals and at every water body one or two stood guard to defend its territory against other animals.
One hot afternoon a donkey walked by intending to take a drink from the dam that was guarded by one fierce baboon. As the donkey bent its head to take a drink of the cool water, he heard a shout.
“What are you doing?” demanded the guardian baboon.
“I’m just taking a drink of water for I am thirsty,” replied the donkey.
“If you want to drink the water you must fight me for it!”
And so began the brawl between the two animals. Punches and bites that left them both with bruises. Finally, the thirsty donkey grabbed the baboon by his neck and threw him against a big rock. The baboon landed with a thud, scraping off the fur on his backside and leaving his bottom exposed – a bright shade of pink.
The donkey drank his water and went about his day.
As for the baboon, he lived to tell the story of his shameful encounter with the donkey – and since then all baboons from his lineage came to be in the same form; angry looking and covered in fur all around with the exception of their bottom.
*
The Olive Baboon has a thick hairy coat of yellow, black and brown hairs throughout its body. Its alternative name is Anubis baboon, a name derived from the Egyptian god, Anubis, from which this baboon is said to resemble in more ways than one.
With pink bare bottoms, the baboons rely on their hairy tails for comfort, and thus cannot use them to grab or hold objects. These mammals do, however, have magnificent sensory skills and can smell, hear or see approaching threats. They actively search for food; feeding on both meat of dead birds and plants in the areas where they are found.
Speaking of habitats, Olive baboons are found in 25 countries throughout Africa extending from Mali in the West to south of our border. If you’d like to see an Olive baboon chilling in the afternoon or going about its day, we suggest a trip to Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park or the Nairobi National Park.
#KeWildlife
He’s on a mission to save the Nyatiti
Rapasa Nyatrapasa Rapwapwa's journey didn’t start as that. He just knew he enjoyed playing the instrument whenever he would travel upcountry from his home in Nairobi, and he wanted to learn everything about the eight stringed instrument that is synonymous with musical sound in western Kenya and eastern Uganda. When he would go to shags as a young boy some people in the village tried to dissuade the Nairobi boy from his interest because "nyatiti players didn’t amount to anything but villagers".
But he had a different view and he eagerly pursued his learning, taking time to seek out masters in the village who could elicit beautiful sounds from the instrument and train him. About ten years ago he signed up to learn under a master instrumentalist. In time he also learnt the construction of the nyatiti, the different ways it can be played depending on the village or location where its being used. He learnt that different forms of the nyatiti dominate the region as far north as Egypt.
His quest for learning and sharing knowledge has seen him play as part of the Nile Project - a collective of musicians from the 11 countries of the Nile who have travelled the world from Egypt to Belgium to America, sharing their music and the unique sounds of the region to a global audience.
He has gone beyond the interest of his mentors to learn about other string instruments from Kenya, infuse them in his music and teach young children about the instruments that called out song and dance in our history.
Rapasa has just released a new album and continues to work with different actors to use music as a source of effective social conversations, change and history capture. There is life in music and there is hope for a future for our instruments with people like Rapasa who just will not let them die. And clearly - that love of nyatiti took and continues to take him way beyond the village!
Do you know schoolkids who would benefit from learning nyatiti skills? Or use traditional instruments for an event ? Connect with Rapasa on Facebook.
additional image courtesy of the Nile Project