17/09/2007
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 15*C Max temp: 29*C
07:30 Did report and e-mails
09:00 Took the AFTW vehicle in for its service.
14:00 Got back on Geluk and took a walk down the mountain towards the house. We saw 2 x Zebra's on the road down.
15:00 Got to the house and headed for the Ryefield with Mike to turn the Centre Pivot on. The Giraffes were on the ryegrass at that time. As we headed for the farm house on Gevonden we came across a young Common reedbuck male near the big stream. It was quite at ease with us and when we headed back to go pick up the vehicle it was still there.
16:30 We headed into Ladysmith with Gail to go pick up the vehicle. The Ryefield were full of animals. Most of the Giraffes and about 12 Zebra's were there, as well as the usual 3 Impala groups and 3 Blesbok. Some of the Blue cranes were also there.
18/09/2007
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 14*C Max temp: 27*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report.
07:50 We left for the Ryefield and saw 3 x groups of Impala, 6 x Warthogs and some Blue cranes.
08:20 We headed for Vertek in search of the Blue Wildebeest but were unable to find them. There were 3 x Kudu's, a cow, a young bull and a calf.
08:40 Geluk/Vertrek border - We did see another group of kudu, all young females.
09:30 We stopped near the river at Geluk to have a look around for the vervet monkeys but could not find any.
11:45 On the way to Geluk we saw the Hartebeest down on the Ryefield.
13:05 We went to the back of Geluk along the fence and were very lucky to see a Steenbok female (Raphicerus campestris). This would be the first sighting of these little antelope we have come across since starting here in February.
15:00 Near the main gate we saw a Slender Mongoose in a tree.
15:30 Went to the dam at the base of the mountain. Some of the Giraffes were there and 2 x Egyptian Geese.
15:40 On the way back I came across Bossie, Stompie and Dogterjie, they were browsing on a Sweet Thorn Acacia. (Giraffe calves)
16:00 Headed back home.
19/09/2007
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 14*C Max temp: 32*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report.
08:25 Near the 2 ponds at the main gate 3 x Kudu cows, 1 bull
08:40 On Geluk on our way to the top we saw 5 x Warthogs (1 sow and 4 piglets)
09:40 We headed to the back on top of Geluk to see if we could perhaps see any more Steenbok.
10:10 On our way back from Geluk, near the main gate we saw a rock monitor.
10:15 Near the big stream we saw 6 x Zebra's and a waterbuck.
11:00 We went to Ethylene School for a meeting with the headmistress.
11:55 Near the Ryefield near the road we saw 5 x Kudu cows and a bull. It was the same ones as earlier.
13:00 There were 4 x Giraffes near the house.
13:10 Near the Ryefield we saw a Slender Mongoose running across the road.
13:15 The Ryefield had the usual on. 3 x Impala groups, 2 x Egyptian Geese, 32 Blue cranes, 2 x Blesbok.
13:40 Took a hike towards mountain and came across the Giraffes. Speedy, Bossie and Stompie.
14:20 Went halfway up the mountain. Did not see any animals but did see loads of animal tracks (zebra, giraffe, jackal)
14:35 Top of mountain 1 x Kudu cow.
15:25 On the way back near the other giraffes we spotted Dogtertjie, Bossie and her mom.
16:00 Headed back.
20/09/2007
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 21*C Max temp: 32*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report.
09:00 Headed to the Ryefield. 3 x Impala groups, 2 x Blesbok, 10 x Warthogs and some Blue Cranes.
09:20 Small group of Impala's on the way to the lodge.
09:30 Went to check on the game block near the lodge. It is almost finished. There were some Kudu, Impala and Zebra faeces.
09:45 Kudu cow and calf near the big dip on the way to the back from the lodge.
13:00 Headed up the mountain.
13:15 Saw 2 x Kudu cows browsing on my way up.
13:45 There were 16 Blesbok on the right hand side of the mountain top. One came up from the Ryefield.
14:10 There were also 9 x Zebra's on the top left hand side of the mountain.
14:40 On the way back from the mountain we saw some of the Giraffes in the valley by the lodge.
15:00 Did some Video Footage and sorted some photo's
08:00 Hannes and the Game Guards took a hike round the back of the mountain.
09:45 There were 2 x Kudu's near the lodge.
10:30 They saw some Mountain Reedbuck round the back of the mountain near the N3.
11:30 Spotted a group of Guineafowl near the Tugela.
11:45 Headed back home.
21/09/2007
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 16*C Max temp: 34*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report.
08:30 Headed to the Ryefield. The Bachelor Impala's were very playful this morning, running around crazily. There were around 27 Blue cranes, the 3 usual groups of Impala and 4 x Warthogs. The 3 Blesbok were also there, one had moved back down from the mountain.
09:00 We headed up the mountain and found 3 x Giraffes on our way up (2 were calves).
09:30 The 15 Blesbok on top were looking good. There was also a Mountain reedbuck near them.
09:50 On our way down the back of the mountain we saw 5 x Kudu bulls and 3 cows browsing on the acacia's
10:35 Near the 2nd dam at the back of the mountain we saw 1 more Kudu bull and cow.
10:40 On the plateau near the show lodge we saw another 3 Giraffes.(1 calf)
11:00 Had a meeting with Charles.
13:00 We headed toward Vertrek/Geluk to check on the Wildebeest.
14:00 We found the 6 of them. They were quite calm and did not run off so we were able to get some photos.
15:00 Headed back home.
22/09/2007
Weather : Sunny and warm
Min temp : 17*C Max temp: 32*C
08:00 Headed to the Ryefield for a check up. Everything seemed fine. The Hartebeest were on the Ryefield this morning.
09:00 There were some Kudu near the house browsing on the acacia's. We spotted 3 x Redbilled Oxpeckers on the Kudu cows. Near the ponds by the house we also saw the Giraffes.
.
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
Weekly Report 10th - 15th September 2007
10/09/2007
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 18*C Max temp: 27*C
07:30 Did reports and e-mails
08:30 We put a game block out near the show lodge for the animals
08:40 Headed towards the back of the mountain.
09:00 Near the big dip we saw 5 Giraffe's on the side of the mountain browsing.
09:15 Near the turn off to the back of the mountain we saw 2 x Kudu's, a cow and calf. They were quite relaxed when we drove past.
09:40 Near the 3rd dam at the back of the mountain we saw a Duiker.
10:20 On the side of the mountain top on the right hand side there as 1 Kudu.
10:25 The 15 Blesbok on top of the right hand side of the mountain are looking well. We also saw 2 x Mountain reedbuck ran across the road.
12:25 We headed to the Ryefield to have a look there. The 3 usual groups of Impala, some Blue Cranes, the 3 Blesbok and 9 x Hartebeest were on the field. We spent some time near the Hartebeest and were surprised at how close we got. Usually they would take off if you drove too near them.
13:00 We went to check on the nest on Geluk. The Geese were not there and it turned out to be a Pied Crow's nest. It might have been an old Goose nest.
13:30 We went to the old lodge on Geluk but there was nothing there. On our way to the lodge near the Ryefield near the road we saw Bossie and her mum and Stompie and Speedy.
13:45 We did spot 2 Martial Eagles on Geluk near the Lodge.
14:20 Saw 2 x Zebras and 6 Impalas on our drive on Geluk.
15:20 We went back to the Game block near the show lodge to see if any animals had discovered it yet, but did not look so. On our way there we saw 9 x Giraffes in the area. Which brings the number of Giraffes seen today to 13. The 5 from earlier were in the group of 9.
15:45 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain. There were 2 x Egyptian Geese, 2 x Spurwinged Geese and a Blackheaded Heron.
16:00 We went to check on the second game block near the house and there was almost nothing left of it. We have seen some Kudu cows and Impala enjoying the blocks.
11/09/2007
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 16*C Max temp: 33*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report.
08:15 Went to the Ryefield for a quick check. 17 x Blue Cranes, 3 usual Impala groups and the 3 Blesbok. Also 4 Warthogs.
08:35 On our way to the mountain, near the road we saw 8 x Waterbuck including the male. They are looking more relaxed now as well.
09:10 On the mountain top right hand side we saw 3 x mountain Reedbuck.
09:15 The 15 Blesbok up there looks good
09:25 On our way down the back of the mountain we saw a Kudu bull browsing.
09:30 The group of Zebra's that usually spent their time in this area was near the Kudu. They are a bit jumpy and headed away when we got closer.
10:05 Round the back, halfway between the 2nd and 3rd dam we saw a duiker and a mountain reedbuck.
10:30 Not too far from the turn off to the show lodge at the back we saw the Kudu cow and calf we saw yesterday.
10:40 3 more Kudu's near the big dip.
11:00 We went and checked the game block near the show lodge. It had not been touched yet, but we will keep and eye on it. We did though see 11 of the Giraffes, the 3 youngest calves amongst them and looking good. They were browsing on the Acacia's. Most of the trees are starting to show some green again.
12:00 I went looking for the Giraffes again to see if I could maybe spot the other 3.
12:20 I found them again near the lodge and had a look around the area but could not see the other 3.
13:00 At the lodge I saw the group of 6 Zebra's. They have not however discovered the game block.
15:30 We took the vehicle again in search of the other 3 Giraffes in the area. Stopped at the plateau near the lodge but only saw 2 more small groups of Zebra and the Waterbuck from earlier.
16:00 We had a quick check on the Ryefield to see if the hartebeest were there but we were unlucky. Hannes went to Vertrek to see if he could spot the Blue Wildebeest up there. There was a reporting of them on Friday.
11:50 Spotted Bushsnake in the Garden
12:40 Vertrek - 16 x Kudu's (cows and their calves)
13:20 Vertrek/Geluk border 3 x Kudu cows. Unfortunately he was unable to locate the Blue Wildebeest.
13/09/2007
Weather : Sunny and warm
Min temp : 17*C Max temp: 34*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:30 Headed for the mountain. We saw 2 Giraffes on our way there, Stompie and Speedy.
08:50 There was a Kudu Bull eating aloe at the top of the mountain in the middle area.
08:55 We then saw another young Kudu bull near the dam on the way to the right hand side of the mountain as well as 6 x Mountain Reedbuck
09:05 The 15 Blesbok on the right looks good and we also saw a Secretary Bird in the area.
09:20 As we came back we saw 11 x Zebra's on the left hand side of the mountain.
09:35 Fixed a patch of fence just as you head down towards the back of the mountain.
10:25 2 x Duiker's and a mountain reedbuck near the second dam at the back of the mountain.
10:40 Near the turn off towards the back of the mountain we saw that kudu cow and calf we saw yesterday.
10:50 Near the big dip we saw another 3 Kudu Bulls. An adult, a 26 month and a 18month old more or less.
10:55 Another Kudu bull just on the other side of the big dip.
11:00 Saw 6 Giraffes at the plateau near the show lodge browsing on the acacia's. 4 Males, 2 Females and a male Mountain Reedbuck.
11:05 The Impala's are starting to form little crèche groups again slowly. We saw a small one near the lodge. There were 31 Impala. The game block was half finished.
12:30 On the Ryefield we saw 24 Blue Cranes, Bachelor Impala's and a breeding Impala group, 3 Blesbok and 5 x Warthogs.
12:55 We headed to Vertrek to see if we would be lucky enough to spot the Blue Wildebeest today.
13:35 Top of the Vertrek/Geluk border we did see 2 x Warthogs digging for roots.
13:40 On Geluk at the top we saw 7 x Kudu, couple of them were calves.
14:20 We headed back down. Unfortunately not seeing the Blue Wildebeest we headed to the lodge on Geluk.
14:40 At the dam by the lodge on Geluk we saw 4 x Red-billed Oxpeckers on the cattle there. One of them had a yellow ring on its left foot, we could not get a clear view of the others. This is a very good sign, as it means the released species are settling in nicely.
15:00 Near the 3rd camp on Geluk there was a small group of 6 x Impala's.
15:30 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain, but there were no animals except birds
15:50 We had a quick look at the game block up at the lodge again and headed back. There were 3 x Impala rams near, one had a broken horn.
14/09/2007
Weather : Overcast
Min temp : 16*C Max temp: 23*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:20 We saw a small group of Impala and a warthog in the field near the Tugela on our way up to the lodge.
08:25 Checked on the game block up top, almost finished.
08:30 We headed toward the back of the mountain from the lodge
09:00 We did not see anything round the back today.
09:30 We went up the mountain and saw a group of 6 Kudu near the dam in the middle, 2 of them young bulls.
09:35 The 15 Blesbok on the right are fine.
09:40 12 x Zebra on the left side of the mountain top, including the 4 foals.
10:00 On the road down from the mountain we saw Bossie and Dogtertjie browsing on some Sweet thorn Acacia.
10:15 We had a look around for the other Giraffes and found 9 on the side of the mountain.
11:00 14 x Impala and a Blackheaded Heron at the dam near the farm house.
12:30 One of the Impala groups were having a drink at the 2 ponds near the main gate.
13:00 We headed to the Ryefield for a check up. 6 x Warthogs, 3 x Impala groups (the one at the ponds had moved back to the Ryefield) 3 x Blesbok, 3 x Spurwinged Geese and 2 Egyptian Geese.
14:00 Near the big stream on the mountain side there were 4 x Waterbuck and 2 Zebra's. The zebra were chasing each other and seemed to be fighting.
14:05 On our way to Vertrek as we passed the Ryefield we saw the 6 Zebra's had moved to the Ryefield and we spotted a secretary bird.
14:15 At the turn off towards Vertrek we saw a whole group of Dassies (Hyrax) on the rocks.
14:30 We headed to the Vertrek/Geluk border to see if we could find the Blue Wildebeest. We were very fortunate to see 6. We followed a short while, but did not want to upset them.
15:30 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain.
15:40 Only saw 2 x Egyptian Geese there.
16:00 Headed back.
15/09/2007
Weather : Sunny
Min temp : 14*C Max temp: 33*C
04:00 Did a early morning drive and headed for the mountain on Gevonden.
04:15 There was an Impala group on our way up.
05:00 We saw the 15 Blesbok, mostly sleeping.
05:20 3 x Kudu males on our way down the back of the mountain.
05:35 2 x Kudu females at the back of the mountain near the 4th dam.
06:00 Spotted the Kudu cow and calf we usually see near the turn off to the lodge.
06:45 Checked the game blocks, the one near the lodge is almost gone now.
07:00 We went to the Ryefield and some of the impala were on there, mostly lying down. We saw some warthogs as well. We stayed on the Ryefield for about 30 min.
07:30 Had a look at the ponds near gate and around, but did not see any animals
08:00 Headed back home.
08:30 Did yesterday's report.
09:30 We took a hike towards the base of the mountain in search of the Giraffes.
10:25 We found them on our way up, and we were very lucky to have counted all 14 today. We followed them around for a while.
11:00 We then headed down the big stream towards the river and went to look for the Hartebeest. We did find some Waterbuck, but it is very difficult to get close as they just run off, so we just tried to watch them from a distance.
12:30 Headed back home.
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 18*C Max temp: 27*C
07:30 Did reports and e-mails
08:30 We put a game block out near the show lodge for the animals
08:40 Headed towards the back of the mountain.
09:00 Near the big dip we saw 5 Giraffe's on the side of the mountain browsing.
09:15 Near the turn off to the back of the mountain we saw 2 x Kudu's, a cow and calf. They were quite relaxed when we drove past.
09:40 Near the 3rd dam at the back of the mountain we saw a Duiker.
10:20 On the side of the mountain top on the right hand side there as 1 Kudu.
10:25 The 15 Blesbok on top of the right hand side of the mountain are looking well. We also saw 2 x Mountain reedbuck ran across the road.
12:25 We headed to the Ryefield to have a look there. The 3 usual groups of Impala, some Blue Cranes, the 3 Blesbok and 9 x Hartebeest were on the field. We spent some time near the Hartebeest and were surprised at how close we got. Usually they would take off if you drove too near them.
13:00 We went to check on the nest on Geluk. The Geese were not there and it turned out to be a Pied Crow's nest. It might have been an old Goose nest.
13:30 We went to the old lodge on Geluk but there was nothing there. On our way to the lodge near the Ryefield near the road we saw Bossie and her mum and Stompie and Speedy.
13:45 We did spot 2 Martial Eagles on Geluk near the Lodge.
14:20 Saw 2 x Zebras and 6 Impalas on our drive on Geluk.
15:20 We went back to the Game block near the show lodge to see if any animals had discovered it yet, but did not look so. On our way there we saw 9 x Giraffes in the area. Which brings the number of Giraffes seen today to 13. The 5 from earlier were in the group of 9.
15:45 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain. There were 2 x Egyptian Geese, 2 x Spurwinged Geese and a Blackheaded Heron.
16:00 We went to check on the second game block near the house and there was almost nothing left of it. We have seen some Kudu cows and Impala enjoying the blocks.
11/09/2007
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 16*C Max temp: 33*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report.
08:15 Went to the Ryefield for a quick check. 17 x Blue Cranes, 3 usual Impala groups and the 3 Blesbok. Also 4 Warthogs.
08:35 On our way to the mountain, near the road we saw 8 x Waterbuck including the male. They are looking more relaxed now as well.
09:10 On the mountain top right hand side we saw 3 x mountain Reedbuck.
09:15 The 15 Blesbok up there looks good
09:25 On our way down the back of the mountain we saw a Kudu bull browsing.
09:30 The group of Zebra's that usually spent their time in this area was near the Kudu. They are a bit jumpy and headed away when we got closer.
10:05 Round the back, halfway between the 2nd and 3rd dam we saw a duiker and a mountain reedbuck.
10:30 Not too far from the turn off to the show lodge at the back we saw the Kudu cow and calf we saw yesterday.
10:40 3 more Kudu's near the big dip.
11:00 We went and checked the game block near the show lodge. It had not been touched yet, but we will keep and eye on it. We did though see 11 of the Giraffes, the 3 youngest calves amongst them and looking good. They were browsing on the Acacia's. Most of the trees are starting to show some green again.
12:00 I went looking for the Giraffes again to see if I could maybe spot the other 3.
12:20 I found them again near the lodge and had a look around the area but could not see the other 3.
13:00 At the lodge I saw the group of 6 Zebra's. They have not however discovered the game block.
15:30 We took the vehicle again in search of the other 3 Giraffes in the area. Stopped at the plateau near the lodge but only saw 2 more small groups of Zebra and the Waterbuck from earlier.
16:00 We had a quick check on the Ryefield to see if the hartebeest were there but we were unlucky. Hannes went to Vertrek to see if he could spot the Blue Wildebeest up there. There was a reporting of them on Friday.
11:50 Spotted Bushsnake in the Garden
12:40 Vertrek - 16 x Kudu's (cows and their calves)
13:20 Vertrek/Geluk border 3 x Kudu cows. Unfortunately he was unable to locate the Blue Wildebeest.
13/09/2007
Weather : Sunny and warm
Min temp : 17*C Max temp: 34*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:30 Headed for the mountain. We saw 2 Giraffes on our way there, Stompie and Speedy.
08:50 There was a Kudu Bull eating aloe at the top of the mountain in the middle area.
08:55 We then saw another young Kudu bull near the dam on the way to the right hand side of the mountain as well as 6 x Mountain Reedbuck
09:05 The 15 Blesbok on the right looks good and we also saw a Secretary Bird in the area.
09:20 As we came back we saw 11 x Zebra's on the left hand side of the mountain.
09:35 Fixed a patch of fence just as you head down towards the back of the mountain.
10:25 2 x Duiker's and a mountain reedbuck near the second dam at the back of the mountain.
10:40 Near the turn off towards the back of the mountain we saw that kudu cow and calf we saw yesterday.
10:50 Near the big dip we saw another 3 Kudu Bulls. An adult, a 26 month and a 18month old more or less.
10:55 Another Kudu bull just on the other side of the big dip.
11:00 Saw 6 Giraffes at the plateau near the show lodge browsing on the acacia's. 4 Males, 2 Females and a male Mountain Reedbuck.
11:05 The Impala's are starting to form little crèche groups again slowly. We saw a small one near the lodge. There were 31 Impala. The game block was half finished.
12:30 On the Ryefield we saw 24 Blue Cranes, Bachelor Impala's and a breeding Impala group, 3 Blesbok and 5 x Warthogs.
12:55 We headed to Vertrek to see if we would be lucky enough to spot the Blue Wildebeest today.
13:35 Top of the Vertrek/Geluk border we did see 2 x Warthogs digging for roots.
13:40 On Geluk at the top we saw 7 x Kudu, couple of them were calves.
14:20 We headed back down. Unfortunately not seeing the Blue Wildebeest we headed to the lodge on Geluk.
14:40 At the dam by the lodge on Geluk we saw 4 x Red-billed Oxpeckers on the cattle there. One of them had a yellow ring on its left foot, we could not get a clear view of the others. This is a very good sign, as it means the released species are settling in nicely.
15:00 Near the 3rd camp on Geluk there was a small group of 6 x Impala's.
15:30 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain, but there were no animals except birds
15:50 We had a quick look at the game block up at the lodge again and headed back. There were 3 x Impala rams near, one had a broken horn.
14/09/2007
Weather : Overcast
Min temp : 16*C Max temp: 23*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:20 We saw a small group of Impala and a warthog in the field near the Tugela on our way up to the lodge.
08:25 Checked on the game block up top, almost finished.
08:30 We headed toward the back of the mountain from the lodge
09:00 We did not see anything round the back today.
09:30 We went up the mountain and saw a group of 6 Kudu near the dam in the middle, 2 of them young bulls.
09:35 The 15 Blesbok on the right are fine.
09:40 12 x Zebra on the left side of the mountain top, including the 4 foals.
10:00 On the road down from the mountain we saw Bossie and Dogtertjie browsing on some Sweet thorn Acacia.
10:15 We had a look around for the other Giraffes and found 9 on the side of the mountain.
11:00 14 x Impala and a Blackheaded Heron at the dam near the farm house.
12:30 One of the Impala groups were having a drink at the 2 ponds near the main gate.
13:00 We headed to the Ryefield for a check up. 6 x Warthogs, 3 x Impala groups (the one at the ponds had moved back to the Ryefield) 3 x Blesbok, 3 x Spurwinged Geese and 2 Egyptian Geese.
14:00 Near the big stream on the mountain side there were 4 x Waterbuck and 2 Zebra's. The zebra were chasing each other and seemed to be fighting.
14:05 On our way to Vertrek as we passed the Ryefield we saw the 6 Zebra's had moved to the Ryefield and we spotted a secretary bird.
14:15 At the turn off towards Vertrek we saw a whole group of Dassies (Hyrax) on the rocks.
14:30 We headed to the Vertrek/Geluk border to see if we could find the Blue Wildebeest. We were very fortunate to see 6. We followed a short while, but did not want to upset them.
15:30 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain.
15:40 Only saw 2 x Egyptian Geese there.
16:00 Headed back.
15/09/2007
Weather : Sunny
Min temp : 14*C Max temp: 33*C
04:00 Did a early morning drive and headed for the mountain on Gevonden.
04:15 There was an Impala group on our way up.
05:00 We saw the 15 Blesbok, mostly sleeping.
05:20 3 x Kudu males on our way down the back of the mountain.
05:35 2 x Kudu females at the back of the mountain near the 4th dam.
06:00 Spotted the Kudu cow and calf we usually see near the turn off to the lodge.
06:45 Checked the game blocks, the one near the lodge is almost gone now.
07:00 We went to the Ryefield and some of the impala were on there, mostly lying down. We saw some warthogs as well. We stayed on the Ryefield for about 30 min.
07:30 Had a look at the ponds near gate and around, but did not see any animals
08:00 Headed back home.
08:30 Did yesterday's report.
09:30 We took a hike towards the base of the mountain in search of the Giraffes.
10:25 We found them on our way up, and we were very lucky to have counted all 14 today. We followed them around for a while.
11:00 We then headed down the big stream towards the river and went to look for the Hartebeest. We did find some Waterbuck, but it is very difficult to get close as they just run off, so we just tried to watch them from a distance.
12:30 Headed back home.
Friday, 14 September 2007
Weekly Reports 3rd - 7th September 2007
03/09/2007
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 11*C Max temp: 28*C
07:30 We filled up the AFTW vehicle with diesel. While doing this we spotted 6x Waterbuck on their way to the dam at the base of the mountain
08:00 Did yesterday's report.
09:00 We went to Ladysmith to get the PC fixed as it was giving too much trouble. We also found out then that the wrong doors for the school had to be reordered. It will probably be here next week then.
13:30 Got back from Ladysmith and set up the PC, it looks to be ok now.
14:30 We headed to the Ryefield - 2 Breeding groups of Impala's and a bachelor group, some Blue Cranes, 2 x Egyptian Geese, Hadeda and Sacred Ibis and some 8 Warthogs. We also saw 2 x Long-crested Eagles in a tree just across the river.
14:50 On the other side of the Ryefield we saw a Black-shouldered Kite in a tree.
15:10 Headed to the dam at the base of the mountain
15:20 There was only an Impala ewe having a drink.
15:30 We headed up the mountain to have a look around. There were some zebra's but they ran off and we were unable to count them
16:00 The 15 Blesbok on the right hand side seem to be enjoying the new growth from the field fire.
16:30 We headed back home.
04/09/2007
Weather : Sunny and windy
Min temp : 12*C Max temp: 31*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:30 Headed for the mountain.
09:00 On the right hand side top of the mountain the 15 Blesbok are looking good.
09:15 Just as we were starting to go down the back of the mountain we saw 2 x Female Mountain reedbuck.
09:55 At the back of the mountain near the N3 close to the 2nd dam we saw 4 x Kudu cows and a 2 year old bull.
10:05 Further down the road we saw another 3 x Mountain Reedbuck and another Kudu Bull.
10:25 On the side of the hill on the road towards the show lodge a duiker female was lying in the grass.
10:30 Near the big dip on the way to the lodge 4 x Giraffes. Vera and 3 adults.
10:40 We saw 4 more giraffes by the show lodge. Stompie and her mom, Speedy and Bossie and her mom.
11:15 There was an Impala group near the pond at the house.
12:00 We went to Geluk to go clear some roads. Summer is starting now and everything grows with new enthusiasm, so we just did a few touch ups. We will probably do it more often now.
12:10 There was a rock Monitor sunbathing in the road on Geluk. It ran off as we got closer.
12:20 Geluk - Martial Eagle in the sky.
13:45 We were done with the road and headed back to Gevonden.
14:00 Hannes took a hike down the big stream but did not see anything interesting.
14:00 I headed to the dam at the base of the mountain.
14:15 There was a lone Impala ewe, 2 x Egyptian Geese, a Warthog, a Reed Cormorant and a Long-crested Eagle at the dam. I spent some time there to see if anything else turns up, but was unlucky.
15:00 Left the dam and headed for the Ryefield.
15:20 There were the 3 usual Impala groups, 3 Blesbok, and some Warthogs and Hadeda Ibis. Also some Blue cranes.
15:30 The Hartebeest turned up on the Ryefield and started grazing as soon as they were on it.
15:40 On the other side of the Ryefield there was 2 x Egyptian Geese.
16:00 Left the Ryefield. All the animals on the Ryefield were relaxed and just grazing.
05/09/2007
Weather : Sunny
Min temp : 16*C Max temp: 32*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report.
08:00 Headed for the mountain.
08:30 Saw a Kudu Bull and 4 x Mountain Reedbuck near the dam on the top of the mountain.
08:40 15 Blesbok on top right hand side of the mountain looking good.
08:50 Another Kudu Bull on the side of the mountain as we headed down towards the back of the mountain.
09:00 We headed down the mountain to the back to do some cleaning up. There is always some rubbish blowing from the N3 onto UmPhafa.
09:50 8 x Kudu bulls near the 2nd dam at the back.
10:05 Near the first dam round the back we saw another 3 x Kudu's. A young bull, a calf and a cow.
10:25 Just at the turn off towards the lodge a Kudu cow and 4 x Mountain Reedbuck.
10:35 In the valley near the road to the lodge we saw 2 x Kudu cows and a calf.
10:40 Near the big dip 2 x Giraffes browsing.
10:50 On the plateau near the show lodge we spotted Stompie and Bossie near the road by themselves. They were quite relaxed and did not seem bothered by us driving so close by them.
11:30 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain.
11:40 We saw the 9 Hartebeest on our way there.
12:10 At the dam we saw at least 4 x Waterbuck. We are sure the rest were close but we were unable to see them in the thick bush. We did see the large male, the rest were female.
12:40 Headed to the Ryefield. There we saw the usual. About 40 Blue cranes, the 3 usual Impala groups, 3 x Blesbok, 6 x Zebras and loads of Warthog enjoying the mud.
13:30 Did some work on the footage of the last couple of weeks.
16:00 Will work on it again tomorrow to try and finish it.
06/09/2007
Weather : Sunny
Min temp : 17*C Max temp: 31*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:30 Went to the Ryefield. The usual 3 x groups of Impala, 2 x Egyptian Geese, 3 x Blesbok and about 40 Blue cranes.
08:55 Near the Tugela by the Ryefield we saw a Brownhooded Kingfisher.
09:25 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain and saw 2 x Egyptian Geese, a male and female Impala, Duiker and a Secretary bird. There was also a Giant Kingfisher in the tree.
10:00 We left the dam and went to start the pump for the centre pivot.
10:50 We went to Geluk with Mike. He wanted to show us a possible Egyptian Geese nesting site. We will keep and eye on it. We did not see the Geese but saw the nest.
12:15 We went to the dam at the base of the mountain again and stayed there to see if anything turned up.
13:30 7 Zebra's turned up at the dam. They stayed in the trees, they were a little unsure of the vehicle.
13:40 2 Warthogs joined in and did not seem too bothered by the vehicle as they had a great time in the mud. The Zebras then came down for a drink.
14:00 Eventually both the Zebra's and the Warthogs left. We headed back.
14:10 Worked on the footage some more.
15:50 We headed up towards the lodge and saw 4 x nice big Kudu bulls. Biltong was one of them.
16:00 Headed back home.
07/09/2007
Weather : Cloudy morning
Min temp : 17*C Max temp: 30*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:00 We went to the Ryefield to fix the sprayer head that came off the centre pivot. The 3 usual Impala groups were there. Also the 3 Blesbok and 9 Hartebeest
08:50 We put a Game Block out for the animals. There were 6 x Zebra, a small group of Impala and some Waterbuck in the clearing near the donga halfway to the mountain.
08:55 As we headed back to the Ryefield with the sprayer head we came across 2 x Warthogs (male and female).
09:30 We went to check on the Egyptian Geese on Geluk. The pair was there but there was no indication that the nest was theirs.
10:00 After getting all we needed to fix the sprayer head we went back to the Ryefield.
10:45 The Blue Cranes arrived on the field.
11:15 We headed up the mountain.
11:35 3 x Mountain Reedbuck in the middle on top of mountain.
11:40 On the top right hand side of the mountain all 15 Blesbok look well.
11:50 Not too far down the back of the mountain we saw 2 x Kudu bulls browsing on the acacia's
12:40 Near the 2nd dam at the back of the mountain we saw a Duiker female and 4 x Mountain Reedbuck.
13:20 3 x Kudu's near the big dip on the way to the show lodge.
13:40 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain and saw Bossie and Stompie on our way there. There were 6 x Zebra's at the dam and 2 x Egyptian Geese.
14:20 We took a hike back to the dam to see if any more animals went there for a drink. Without the vehicle scaring them off. We were there for about and hour and nothing came back for a drink. We had a look around to see if we could see the Giraffes, but we could not find them.
16:00 Came back to the farm house.
Weather: Sunny and warm
Min temp: 11*C Max temp: 28*C
07:30 We filled up the AFTW vehicle with diesel. While doing this we spotted 6x Waterbuck on their way to the dam at the base of the mountain
08:00 Did yesterday's report.
09:00 We went to Ladysmith to get the PC fixed as it was giving too much trouble. We also found out then that the wrong doors for the school had to be reordered. It will probably be here next week then.
13:30 Got back from Ladysmith and set up the PC, it looks to be ok now.
14:30 We headed to the Ryefield - 2 Breeding groups of Impala's and a bachelor group, some Blue Cranes, 2 x Egyptian Geese, Hadeda and Sacred Ibis and some 8 Warthogs. We also saw 2 x Long-crested Eagles in a tree just across the river.
14:50 On the other side of the Ryefield we saw a Black-shouldered Kite in a tree.
15:10 Headed to the dam at the base of the mountain
15:20 There was only an Impala ewe having a drink.
15:30 We headed up the mountain to have a look around. There were some zebra's but they ran off and we were unable to count them
16:00 The 15 Blesbok on the right hand side seem to be enjoying the new growth from the field fire.
16:30 We headed back home.
04/09/2007
Weather : Sunny and windy
Min temp : 12*C Max temp: 31*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:30 Headed for the mountain.
09:00 On the right hand side top of the mountain the 15 Blesbok are looking good.
09:15 Just as we were starting to go down the back of the mountain we saw 2 x Female Mountain reedbuck.
09:55 At the back of the mountain near the N3 close to the 2nd dam we saw 4 x Kudu cows and a 2 year old bull.
10:05 Further down the road we saw another 3 x Mountain Reedbuck and another Kudu Bull.
10:25 On the side of the hill on the road towards the show lodge a duiker female was lying in the grass.
10:30 Near the big dip on the way to the lodge 4 x Giraffes. Vera and 3 adults.
10:40 We saw 4 more giraffes by the show lodge. Stompie and her mom, Speedy and Bossie and her mom.
11:15 There was an Impala group near the pond at the house.
12:00 We went to Geluk to go clear some roads. Summer is starting now and everything grows with new enthusiasm, so we just did a few touch ups. We will probably do it more often now.
12:10 There was a rock Monitor sunbathing in the road on Geluk. It ran off as we got closer.
12:20 Geluk - Martial Eagle in the sky.
13:45 We were done with the road and headed back to Gevonden.
14:00 Hannes took a hike down the big stream but did not see anything interesting.
14:00 I headed to the dam at the base of the mountain.
14:15 There was a lone Impala ewe, 2 x Egyptian Geese, a Warthog, a Reed Cormorant and a Long-crested Eagle at the dam. I spent some time there to see if anything else turns up, but was unlucky.
15:00 Left the dam and headed for the Ryefield.
15:20 There were the 3 usual Impala groups, 3 Blesbok, and some Warthogs and Hadeda Ibis. Also some Blue cranes.
15:30 The Hartebeest turned up on the Ryefield and started grazing as soon as they were on it.
15:40 On the other side of the Ryefield there was 2 x Egyptian Geese.
16:00 Left the Ryefield. All the animals on the Ryefield were relaxed and just grazing.
05/09/2007
Weather : Sunny
Min temp : 16*C Max temp: 32*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report.
08:00 Headed for the mountain.
08:30 Saw a Kudu Bull and 4 x Mountain Reedbuck near the dam on the top of the mountain.
08:40 15 Blesbok on top right hand side of the mountain looking good.
08:50 Another Kudu Bull on the side of the mountain as we headed down towards the back of the mountain.
09:00 We headed down the mountain to the back to do some cleaning up. There is always some rubbish blowing from the N3 onto UmPhafa.
09:50 8 x Kudu bulls near the 2nd dam at the back.
10:05 Near the first dam round the back we saw another 3 x Kudu's. A young bull, a calf and a cow.
10:25 Just at the turn off towards the lodge a Kudu cow and 4 x Mountain Reedbuck.
10:35 In the valley near the road to the lodge we saw 2 x Kudu cows and a calf.
10:40 Near the big dip 2 x Giraffes browsing.
10:50 On the plateau near the show lodge we spotted Stompie and Bossie near the road by themselves. They were quite relaxed and did not seem bothered by us driving so close by them.
11:30 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain.
11:40 We saw the 9 Hartebeest on our way there.
12:10 At the dam we saw at least 4 x Waterbuck. We are sure the rest were close but we were unable to see them in the thick bush. We did see the large male, the rest were female.
12:40 Headed to the Ryefield. There we saw the usual. About 40 Blue cranes, the 3 usual Impala groups, 3 x Blesbok, 6 x Zebras and loads of Warthog enjoying the mud.
13:30 Did some work on the footage of the last couple of weeks.
16:00 Will work on it again tomorrow to try and finish it.
06/09/2007
Weather : Sunny
Min temp : 17*C Max temp: 31*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:30 Went to the Ryefield. The usual 3 x groups of Impala, 2 x Egyptian Geese, 3 x Blesbok and about 40 Blue cranes.
08:55 Near the Tugela by the Ryefield we saw a Brownhooded Kingfisher.
09:25 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain and saw 2 x Egyptian Geese, a male and female Impala, Duiker and a Secretary bird. There was also a Giant Kingfisher in the tree.
10:00 We left the dam and went to start the pump for the centre pivot.
10:50 We went to Geluk with Mike. He wanted to show us a possible Egyptian Geese nesting site. We will keep and eye on it. We did not see the Geese but saw the nest.
12:15 We went to the dam at the base of the mountain again and stayed there to see if anything turned up.
13:30 7 Zebra's turned up at the dam. They stayed in the trees, they were a little unsure of the vehicle.
13:40 2 Warthogs joined in and did not seem too bothered by the vehicle as they had a great time in the mud. The Zebras then came down for a drink.
14:00 Eventually both the Zebra's and the Warthogs left. We headed back.
14:10 Worked on the footage some more.
15:50 We headed up towards the lodge and saw 4 x nice big Kudu bulls. Biltong was one of them.
16:00 Headed back home.
07/09/2007
Weather : Cloudy morning
Min temp : 17*C Max temp: 30*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:00 We went to the Ryefield to fix the sprayer head that came off the centre pivot. The 3 usual Impala groups were there. Also the 3 Blesbok and 9 Hartebeest
08:50 We put a Game Block out for the animals. There were 6 x Zebra, a small group of Impala and some Waterbuck in the clearing near the donga halfway to the mountain.
08:55 As we headed back to the Ryefield with the sprayer head we came across 2 x Warthogs (male and female).
09:30 We went to check on the Egyptian Geese on Geluk. The pair was there but there was no indication that the nest was theirs.
10:00 After getting all we needed to fix the sprayer head we went back to the Ryefield.
10:45 The Blue Cranes arrived on the field.
11:15 We headed up the mountain.
11:35 3 x Mountain Reedbuck in the middle on top of mountain.
11:40 On the top right hand side of the mountain all 15 Blesbok look well.
11:50 Not too far down the back of the mountain we saw 2 x Kudu bulls browsing on the acacia's
12:40 Near the 2nd dam at the back of the mountain we saw a Duiker female and 4 x Mountain Reedbuck.
13:20 3 x Kudu's near the big dip on the way to the show lodge.
13:40 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain and saw Bossie and Stompie on our way there. There were 6 x Zebra's at the dam and 2 x Egyptian Geese.
14:20 We took a hike back to the dam to see if any more animals went there for a drink. Without the vehicle scaring them off. We were there for about and hour and nothing came back for a drink. We had a look around to see if we could see the Giraffes, but we could not find them.
16:00 Came back to the farm house.
Monday, 3 September 2007
Weekly Report 20th - 24th August 2007
20/08/2007
Weather : Sunny
Max Temp : 26*C Min Temp : 07*C
On Sunday morning we saw 9 x Hartebeest on the Ryefield
07:30 Did the reports
08:30 We went into Ladysmith to get the quotes for the radios and some quotes for glass for the windows.
08:35 At the pond near the house we saw a Kudu bull
12:00 We went to the dam near the base of the mountain. We saw a Grey headed Heron and some Egyptian Geese. There was also a female duiker that came down for a drink
12:45 We went round the back and came back over the road by the lodge. Near the big dip we saw a lone Giraffe.
12:55 On our way from the lodge we came across a group of Impala's. About 24 + a ram on the right hand side of the road.
13:00 Near the big stream we saw a secretary bird. Just past the Ryefield we saw 2 x Warthogs in the grass
13:05 Near the Weenen Geluk border we saw 3 x Warthogs and 3 more near the entrance to Geluk
13:10 Near the Geluk Vertrek border we saw a female Duiker
14:00 The new road on Vertrek to Geluk on the mountain we went to get some Photos of the Blue wildebeest tracks and dung
14:05 We went to Vertrek and checked on the fence. The workers were packing rocks at the bottom of the fence for the animals not to underneath the fence
14:30 Ryefield, about 50 guinea fowls and 2 x Grey winged Francolin. 3 groups of Impala's, 6 Zebra's and 4 x Warthogs
14:45 There was a warthog digging for roots just next to the road on the Ryefield.
14:55 At the ponds near the house we saw 2 x Kudu cows enjoying aloe flowers.
15:45 We headed up towards the mountain to see if we could spot the rest of the Giraffes but we could not see them. On our way up though we did see a tree Agama and it is a sign that the weather is warming up.
16:15 We headed back home.
21/08/2007
Weather : Sunny
Max Temp : 27*C Min Temp : 09*C
02:30 In the early hours of the morning I was awaken by a strange noise. At first I thought the Impala's were in the garden again but when I had a look I saw instead a porcupine outside my bedroom window.
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:00 We headed to the Ryefield to pump the tyre of the centre pivot and started the pump. There were 6 x Warthogs, about 40 blue cranes, some hadeda ibis and 2 groups of Impala's
08:40 There was a small group of Impala's having a drink at the ponds near the house.
08:55 There was also a group of Impala's and the 3 Blesbok heading towards the Ryefield
09:00 We headed up the mountain to check on the rest of the blesbok up top.
09:30 They were on the right hand side of the mountain enjoying the new growth after the fire burnt a little corner at the top.
09:45 Just heading down the mountain at the back we saw 3 Kudu cows near the fence
09:55 A little further down a duiker
10:15 At the back of the mountain we saw a Red-faced Mousebird (Urocolius indicus)
10:25 At the back of the mountain we saw 7 x Kudu bulls enjoying the aloe flowers. There were also 6 x Mountain Reedbuck near them.
10:35 Near the rocky valley where we always see the dassies we saw a year old Kudu bull eating aloe flowers
10:45 On our way to the lodge from the back we saw another group of Kudu cows (4) with a year old calf.
10:55 Near the big dip towards the lodge we spotted Vera and Bossie and 2 more adult Giraffes.
11:00 At the plateau near the lodge we saw another female Giraffe
12:10 On the Ryefield the Zebra's had moved down to graze.
12:35 There were 6 x Zebras on Geluk as well near the lodge
12:55 3 x Duikers on Geluk near lodge
13:00 Saw some Shelley's francolin on the mountain
13:20 On the koppie near the lodge on Geluk a Rock monitor
13:25 On the same koppie near the lodge on Geluk we found some more pottery. It looks the same as the previous ones we found
13:30 Same koppie we saw some Hyrax as well
14:15 In the stream we saw a Slender Mongoose
15:00 3 Banded Plover
12:00 I took a hike towards the giraffes to see if I could see the rest.
12:30 On the plateau near the lodge I saw the same female as earlier and also spotted Dogtertjie lying in the grass. Looking over the field towards the mountain from the plateau I saw 4 x Zebra's.
12:45 While looking for the rest of the giraffes I came across a black-backed Jackal in the road. It ran off when it saw me.
13:45 I spotted Vera and Bossie again near the big dip
15:30 Got back home and sorted out some Photo's
22/08/2007
Weather : Sunny
Max Temp : 24*C Min Temp : 10*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:25 We headed up to the mountain and near the base saw a duiker female in the grass
08:35 Just on top of the mountain saw 2 x Kudu cows eating aloe
08:45 On the right hand side of the mountain top we saw 3 x Mountain Reedbuck
08:50 Right hand side mountain top the 15 usual blesbok looking good
09:15 Back of the mountain near base a duiker
09:25 Back of mountain near the 4th dam another duiker
09:30 Back of mountain near the N3 2 x Duikers, 1 male and 1 female
09:40 Near 1st dam by the rocky valley another Duiker
10:05 At the big dip towards the show lodge we saw Dogtertjie and Stompie with their moms
10:25 On the main road from the lodge we saw 8 x Mountain Reedbuck
11:45 Close to the pond near the house we saw the 6 Zebras (3 foal, 2 mares, 1 stallion)
11:50 Ryefield - 2 families of warthogs (3 and 5), 3 x Blesbok, the usual 3 groups of Impala's and some Hadeda Ibis
12:00 Geluk Vertrek border near the fence by the main road we saw 8 x Kudu's (1 bull, 3 x calves and 4 cows)
14:00 We took a hike towards the mountain and came down the big stream from the top. We did not see anything of interest.
16:20 While walking down the dry bed we did come across 2 x Duikers and a Scrub hare
15:00 Hannes headed up to Geluk to have a look around but did not find anything of interest. He took a new road that needs some clearing up before we take the vehicle on it. We will do that tomorrow.
17:00 We headed back home.
23/08/2007
Weather : Sunny, little windy
Max Temp : 28*C Min Temp : 09*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:15 On the left hand side of the main road near the Ryefield we saw a group of Impala's still lying in the long grass
08:25 We headed to Geluk to clear the road and near the entrance saw 4 x Kudu's, 2 cows and two 2 year old bulls
08:30 A little further down the road we spotted a duiker
10:00 We were done clearing the road and headed back. We then saw a small group of Impala's, 5 x ewe's, 1 ram and a year old ram
10:30 Near the entrance to Geluk we saw a small bachelor group of Impala's
10:40 There was a lone warthog at the 2 ponds near the main gate
10:45 Near the road opposite the Ryefield we saw a another warthog
12:00 -14:00 We fixed the fence near the N3 at the back of the mountain
14:20 We saw a Kudu cow and her calf near the big dip towards the show lodge
14:50 We went to Geluk and up the mountain to get a photo of an old rock that has been written on in the boer war.
15:30 There were a big group guinea fowl near the entrance to Geluk
16:00 We headed to the Ryefield and saw 9 x Hartebeest, 3 Blesbok, the usual 3 groups of Impala's, about 6 Warthogs and a group of Blue cranes
16:30 Got back home.
24/08/2007
Weather : Cloudy
Max Temp : 20*C Min Temp : 11*C
07:30 Filled the bakkie with diesel and pumped the wheels. Did yesterday's report
08:00 Saw a Waterbuck cow in the plains near the donga at the base of the mountain
08:30 We headed up the mountain
09:00 We spotted 4 x Giraffes on top of the mountain in the middle area. They were browsing on the Acacia. We saw their tracks when we headed up the mountain
09:10 We saw a some Common quail, orange throated long claws and some Natal francolin
09:20 On the right hand side of the mountain we saw the 15 Blesbok and 3 Crowned Plovers on the burned area.
10:30 Just at the base of the mountain we saw 4 x young Kudu Bulls.
10:50 At the back of the mountain 1 x Blackheaded Heron. We are seeing much more frequently now.
12:10 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain. We saw a Duiker there having a drink
12:30 At the ponds near the house there was a group of Impala's having a drink
13:00 We headed up to Cloustons to check on the progress of the road.
13:50 From the Vertrek/Geluk border they have done 1.2 km
14:30 We headed to the Ryefield. There were 9 Hartebeest, 3 Blesbok and 2 groups of Impala on the Ryefield
15:30 We headed to the show lodge to see if we could spot the rest of the Giraffes. They were up near the Plateau. We could not however see them all. We did see Bossie and Stompie.
16:00 Headed back home
Weather : Sunny
Max Temp : 26*C Min Temp : 07*C
On Sunday morning we saw 9 x Hartebeest on the Ryefield
07:30 Did the reports
08:30 We went into Ladysmith to get the quotes for the radios and some quotes for glass for the windows.
08:35 At the pond near the house we saw a Kudu bull
12:00 We went to the dam near the base of the mountain. We saw a Grey headed Heron and some Egyptian Geese. There was also a female duiker that came down for a drink
12:45 We went round the back and came back over the road by the lodge. Near the big dip we saw a lone Giraffe.
12:55 On our way from the lodge we came across a group of Impala's. About 24 + a ram on the right hand side of the road.
13:00 Near the big stream we saw a secretary bird. Just past the Ryefield we saw 2 x Warthogs in the grass
13:05 Near the Weenen Geluk border we saw 3 x Warthogs and 3 more near the entrance to Geluk
13:10 Near the Geluk Vertrek border we saw a female Duiker
14:00 The new road on Vertrek to Geluk on the mountain we went to get some Photos of the Blue wildebeest tracks and dung
14:05 We went to Vertrek and checked on the fence. The workers were packing rocks at the bottom of the fence for the animals not to underneath the fence
14:30 Ryefield, about 50 guinea fowls and 2 x Grey winged Francolin. 3 groups of Impala's, 6 Zebra's and 4 x Warthogs
14:45 There was a warthog digging for roots just next to the road on the Ryefield.
14:55 At the ponds near the house we saw 2 x Kudu cows enjoying aloe flowers.
15:45 We headed up towards the mountain to see if we could spot the rest of the Giraffes but we could not see them. On our way up though we did see a tree Agama and it is a sign that the weather is warming up.
16:15 We headed back home.
21/08/2007
Weather : Sunny
Max Temp : 27*C Min Temp : 09*C
02:30 In the early hours of the morning I was awaken by a strange noise. At first I thought the Impala's were in the garden again but when I had a look I saw instead a porcupine outside my bedroom window.
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:00 We headed to the Ryefield to pump the tyre of the centre pivot and started the pump. There were 6 x Warthogs, about 40 blue cranes, some hadeda ibis and 2 groups of Impala's
08:40 There was a small group of Impala's having a drink at the ponds near the house.
08:55 There was also a group of Impala's and the 3 Blesbok heading towards the Ryefield
09:00 We headed up the mountain to check on the rest of the blesbok up top.
09:30 They were on the right hand side of the mountain enjoying the new growth after the fire burnt a little corner at the top.
09:45 Just heading down the mountain at the back we saw 3 Kudu cows near the fence
09:55 A little further down a duiker
10:15 At the back of the mountain we saw a Red-faced Mousebird (Urocolius indicus)
10:25 At the back of the mountain we saw 7 x Kudu bulls enjoying the aloe flowers. There were also 6 x Mountain Reedbuck near them.
10:35 Near the rocky valley where we always see the dassies we saw a year old Kudu bull eating aloe flowers
10:45 On our way to the lodge from the back we saw another group of Kudu cows (4) with a year old calf.
10:55 Near the big dip towards the lodge we spotted Vera and Bossie and 2 more adult Giraffes.
11:00 At the plateau near the lodge we saw another female Giraffe
12:10 On the Ryefield the Zebra's had moved down to graze.
12:35 There were 6 x Zebras on Geluk as well near the lodge
12:55 3 x Duikers on Geluk near lodge
13:00 Saw some Shelley's francolin on the mountain
13:20 On the koppie near the lodge on Geluk a Rock monitor
13:25 On the same koppie near the lodge on Geluk we found some more pottery. It looks the same as the previous ones we found
13:30 Same koppie we saw some Hyrax as well
14:15 In the stream we saw a Slender Mongoose
15:00 3 Banded Plover
12:00 I took a hike towards the giraffes to see if I could see the rest.
12:30 On the plateau near the lodge I saw the same female as earlier and also spotted Dogtertjie lying in the grass. Looking over the field towards the mountain from the plateau I saw 4 x Zebra's.
12:45 While looking for the rest of the giraffes I came across a black-backed Jackal in the road. It ran off when it saw me.
13:45 I spotted Vera and Bossie again near the big dip
15:30 Got back home and sorted out some Photo's
22/08/2007
Weather : Sunny
Max Temp : 24*C Min Temp : 10*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:25 We headed up to the mountain and near the base saw a duiker female in the grass
08:35 Just on top of the mountain saw 2 x Kudu cows eating aloe
08:45 On the right hand side of the mountain top we saw 3 x Mountain Reedbuck
08:50 Right hand side mountain top the 15 usual blesbok looking good
09:15 Back of the mountain near base a duiker
09:25 Back of mountain near the 4th dam another duiker
09:30 Back of mountain near the N3 2 x Duikers, 1 male and 1 female
09:40 Near 1st dam by the rocky valley another Duiker
10:05 At the big dip towards the show lodge we saw Dogtertjie and Stompie with their moms
10:25 On the main road from the lodge we saw 8 x Mountain Reedbuck
11:45 Close to the pond near the house we saw the 6 Zebras (3 foal, 2 mares, 1 stallion)
11:50 Ryefield - 2 families of warthogs (3 and 5), 3 x Blesbok, the usual 3 groups of Impala's and some Hadeda Ibis
12:00 Geluk Vertrek border near the fence by the main road we saw 8 x Kudu's (1 bull, 3 x calves and 4 cows)
14:00 We took a hike towards the mountain and came down the big stream from the top. We did not see anything of interest.
16:20 While walking down the dry bed we did come across 2 x Duikers and a Scrub hare
15:00 Hannes headed up to Geluk to have a look around but did not find anything of interest. He took a new road that needs some clearing up before we take the vehicle on it. We will do that tomorrow.
17:00 We headed back home.
23/08/2007
Weather : Sunny, little windy
Max Temp : 28*C Min Temp : 09*C
07:30 Did yesterday's report
08:15 On the left hand side of the main road near the Ryefield we saw a group of Impala's still lying in the long grass
08:25 We headed to Geluk to clear the road and near the entrance saw 4 x Kudu's, 2 cows and two 2 year old bulls
08:30 A little further down the road we spotted a duiker
10:00 We were done clearing the road and headed back. We then saw a small group of Impala's, 5 x ewe's, 1 ram and a year old ram
10:30 Near the entrance to Geluk we saw a small bachelor group of Impala's
10:40 There was a lone warthog at the 2 ponds near the main gate
10:45 Near the road opposite the Ryefield we saw a another warthog
12:00 -14:00 We fixed the fence near the N3 at the back of the mountain
14:20 We saw a Kudu cow and her calf near the big dip towards the show lodge
14:50 We went to Geluk and up the mountain to get a photo of an old rock that has been written on in the boer war.
15:30 There were a big group guinea fowl near the entrance to Geluk
16:00 We headed to the Ryefield and saw 9 x Hartebeest, 3 Blesbok, the usual 3 groups of Impala's, about 6 Warthogs and a group of Blue cranes
16:30 Got back home.
24/08/2007
Weather : Cloudy
Max Temp : 20*C Min Temp : 11*C
07:30 Filled the bakkie with diesel and pumped the wheels. Did yesterday's report
08:00 Saw a Waterbuck cow in the plains near the donga at the base of the mountain
08:30 We headed up the mountain
09:00 We spotted 4 x Giraffes on top of the mountain in the middle area. They were browsing on the Acacia. We saw their tracks when we headed up the mountain
09:10 We saw a some Common quail, orange throated long claws and some Natal francolin
09:20 On the right hand side of the mountain we saw the 15 Blesbok and 3 Crowned Plovers on the burned area.
10:30 Just at the base of the mountain we saw 4 x young Kudu Bulls.
10:50 At the back of the mountain 1 x Blackheaded Heron. We are seeing much more frequently now.
12:10 We headed to the dam at the base of the mountain. We saw a Duiker there having a drink
12:30 At the ponds near the house there was a group of Impala's having a drink
13:00 We headed up to Cloustons to check on the progress of the road.
13:50 From the Vertrek/Geluk border they have done 1.2 km
14:30 We headed to the Ryefield. There were 9 Hartebeest, 3 Blesbok and 2 groups of Impala on the Ryefield
15:30 We headed to the show lodge to see if we could spot the rest of the Giraffes. They were up near the Plateau. We could not however see them all. We did see Bossie and Stompie.
16:00 Headed back home
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