Underdogs
The fight to save South Africa's wild dogs - Written by Neil AldridgeWhy do so many people insist on harping on about and marketing 'The big five'? They are not, and never have been, the most exciting animals to see on safari. The big five were considered the best animals to hunt and kill whilst on safari. Would you happily sit and watch a buffalo, spectacular as they are, munching grass or wandering across a hill side for hours? Fantastic as rhinos are, 20 minutes is more than enough for most people watching a grazing behemoth.
There are so many more interesting things to watch, and look for, in Africa and yet, in retrospect, perhaps it is a benefit that so many poor misguided fools are happy with a quick glimpse of each of the 5 before returning to their hotel for a sundowner. That means that the bush is so much more peaceful for the cognoscenti.
And what would the cognoscenti look for? Something a little different, with a bit more character. An aardvark perhaps; or one of the more unusual cats such as a serval. But my guess is that near the top of most of their wish lists would be a pack of wild dogs.
Neil Aldridge is a photo journalist and a qualified bush guide. He knows his stuff, and this book has some wonderful photos and a huge insight into the lives of these beautiful, yet persecuted, creatures.
Recommended for... The cognoscenti and anyone with an intrest in wildlife.
RRP £32.50
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