Feb 24th – March 2
By Jack Massey (University of Vermont)
Every day brings a new experience. We have been in Botswana for almost two weeks now and it seems like it has been months. The feelings of excitement and wonder that were present in our first days here has slowly morphed into a sense of responsibility and diligence as we begin our field work. Getting the chance to form relationships with the villagers of Sankuyo has been extremely rewarding. Through attending local volleyball games and community meetings we have made or presence and purpose known throughout the community. On our last day in Sankuyo, we were able to witness the local dance team practicing a traditional dance known as Tsutsube. The dance consisted of stomping and chanting to form an unmistakable rhythm that could be heard even from a distance. Beads worn around the ankles of the dancers made a shaking sound that contributed greatly to the sound of the dance. At one point, one of our group leaders, Matt, got to try his dancing skills in the middle of the dance circle. Needless to say, the dance is extremely complicated and takes years of group practice to perfect. It was an extremely cultural experience that reminded me of just how many different ways of life existed in the world.
Dance group in Sankuyo (photo by Jack)
A few days later, as we were sitting in camp discussing our daily readings, a group of elephants came through our camp. While we have seen many elephants since our time in Botswana, there was something special about this group. Consisting of about eight animals, they made their way to the pond next to our camp and began drinking and playing in the water. The elephants, being distracted by the water, allowed us to get close and observe them from the side of the pond. It was the closest I had ever been to an elephant and it was a truly unforgettable experience. It was a great chance to see the animal’s behavior up close and definitely put the conservation work we are doing here in perspective.
Elephants near camp (photo by Jack)
Finally, when we were on our way out of Sankuyo, we were able to spot our first pride of lions relaxing in the shade on the side of the road. We had been seeing the tracks these lions had been leaving on the roads all week, but so far, they had avoided us. It was very exciting to see these large, elusive cats so close to the road. While we are sure to see more of these animals in the next two months we spent here, I will never forget the first time I saw a pride of lions in the wild.
Male lion on the side of the road (photo by Jack)