This Week At Angama #165

I will be the first to admit that this week I have hardly spent any time out in the field photographing wildlife. The four hours that I did manage to spend out in the grasslands of the Mara were in very productive. I chanced upon the Border Pride as they were trailing a small grouping of buffalo bulls. My heart raced as I sat high up in the car and watched out over the golden grass – the heads of 15 lions popping up from all over. Ultimately, the buffalos proved too big for the lions and after a tense stand-off the buffalo sent the lions running for safety.

Besides the lion action that punctuated my drive, there were a number of smaller cameos at play. At first light I watched this black-backed jackal catch and enjoy a rather large rodent. Literally an hour later, and I watched in amazement as a black-headed heron did the same thing. And swallowed it whole…

Hot air balloons are somewhat of an icon of the Mara landscape, silently drifting across the grasslands at first light, like jellyfish gliding across the skies.

The Mara Conservancy managed to complete one small controlled burn, before the rains start again. I loved how beautifully this European roller stood out against the burnt backdrop.

Pulling me away from game drives week were multiple photoshoots, from a multi-family party, to a long overdue gorgeous, intimate, Maasai style Wedding. In addition, as a farewell present to the Davis family, I took some pictures of them on the slopes below Angama – hoping to capture a moment that epitomises their Kenyan life.

We have also started filming our stunning new light-footprint mobile camp, Angama Safari Camp. Watch this space!

Last, but not least, we had multiple farewell celebrations for Shannon and Tyler Davis, whom after 6 years at the helm of the Angama ship, are returning home to America. There was a Volleyball Tournament, light-hearted field games, a marching precession, speeches, gifts and music and dancing long into the night.

As you can see, photoshoots for families or couples celebrating a milestone is something we love doing for our guests. The Angama Photographic Studio is always open and eager to make your trip even more memorable.

Two years ago, I switched the engine off of the car, and sat quietly eating my breakfast on the banks of the Mara River. Within minutes a gorgeous African fish eagle swooped up onto a dead branch right in front of me – with a freshly caught fish in his talons. Perfect light, incredible action, and photographic heaven. Fortune favours those who pack breakfast.