Protecting whales
You’d think a meteor collision would be enough adventure, but Margaret Hocking's story didn't stop there.
I was pleased to read Comeback for Humpbacks (Wild News, January 2020) but was amazed that the article finished by discussing the possibility of resuming commercial whaling as the humpbacks were doing so well! Surely it is time to disband the outdated International Whaling Commission and, through the UN, declare all whales and dolphins as protected species. This ruling should be backedup by force, if necessary, and whaling ships destroyed and crews brought before the international court. Countries that ignore this ruling should be boycotted and ostracised. The barbaric butchering of these intelligent creatures belongs in the history books, so let’s make 2020 the year we really do save the whale! John B Wadsworth, via email
“I knew I shouldn’t run, but I was desperately looking for a tree to climb. ”
It was 3 June 2018, the day after an asteroid, known as 2018 LA, had collided with Earth, landing in Botswana. We had heard the bang, seen the Kalahari light up as if it were day and felt the deep vibrations that followed the impact. It was only later that we discovered we had witnessed an extra-terrestrial event.
Still reeling from the excitement, we had few expectations for our walk with two San tribesmen that afternoon. We – five experienced safari travellers and Bonali, our guide – met the tribesmen a short drive from camp. We were joined by two other visitors and their guide, Lucas, who delivered a safety briefing, assuring us afterwards that we “wouldn’t need it”.
We hiked half a mile into the bush, the San showing us how they survive in Botswana’s harsh conditions. Fire-making was the final demonstration, and as the blaze was extinguished, we readied ourselves to return to the Jeeps. Suddenly, Bonali spoke in an urgent tone: “Lion!”
A few yards away was a lioness. The San immediately started yelling at her, but she didn’t move. One of them even
tried reverting into English. “Lion, lion, go away!” he shouted. But the animal was undeterred.
We grouped together as instructed. Then, we spotted a second lion, and a third. Before we knew it, we were surrounded by five big cats. Bonali had radioed back to camp, but it could be 30 minutes before help arrived. I knew I shouldn’t run, but I was desperately looking for a tree to climb.
The light was fading, and two of the lions were now metres in front of us. One was licking her paw, and seemed very interested in that; the other was sitting nonchalantly. Then, she stood up and padded towards us.
Three terrific bangs erupted as Lucas, beside me, fired shots into the ground. The cats backed away, and I could hear vehicles approaching. I was glad to be rescued; gladder still that no lion had been harmed.
They say things happen in threes. As we rumbled back to camp, I wondered what adventure lay in wait the next day.