The Others

Besides seeing the big herds of animals and the amazing big five, there were lots of other interesting birds and animals in the Mara.

Ostriches always seemed to be heading away from us and we figured out they are really quite shy.  This part of the reserve has been burnt off as part of the conservation management plan in order to allow fresh new grass to grow back.

Right outside our hotel balcony was a whole colony of mongoose, playing and chasing each other.  We never did see a snake during our whole time in Africa - which was just fine with me!

Waterbuck were also elusive but we spotted this one along a little waterway.

Chris would often scan the tops of the trees to find vultures, who were a good indication of carrion that might have been left by big cats. 

And he was usually right!  The acacia trees provide a perfect perch for these guys.

This topi baby was very new - maybe just born in the last few hours.

The funniest animals were the warthogs.  As soon as they were scared, off they would run with their tail sticking straight up in the air!  We were reminded of The Lion King movie many times.

Secretary birds are about 4 feet tall and wander along, eating rodents, snakes and insects.  They were named this because their wing feathers made good quills for writing.

And then there were the hyenas - we never expected to find them in mud but that's where they go to cool off.  They were not the most lovable of the animals at all!