One of the pressing issues of our age, the preservation of the natural habitats of the rich variety of wildlife on Earth, is a focus and concern for ecologists, naturalists, governments and travellers alike. The survival of the species has taken on a whole new meaning in the post-industrialisation world.
Wildlife Safaris
At one time, safaris were organised for the wealthy to take part in big game hunts, mainly in Africa. Now, however, although complacency cannot be the order of the day as poachers are still active and wildlife endangered, safaris are set up to introduce travellers to the wonders of animals roaming the plains or swimming in the lakes of Africa. Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania and Namibia offer trips never to be forgotten with often elegant, comfortable tents and instructive guides. Safari holidays also bring a very important amount of foreign currency into Africa.
The Big Five
The big five animals – lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, rhinoceros and elephant – are the most sort after for viewing, often in a canvas-roofed open-top jeeps. Equally appealing can be watching giraffes feeding from amazingly high trees or gazelles and wildebeest leaping through the savanna.
The Preservation of Wildlife
Although much has been done through legislation to protect wildlife in their natural habitats, poaching still takes place, habitats are encroached by developers and global warming results in the destruction of available food through drought. Much is now being done to establish new habitats for struggling animals throughout the world and the fight against global warming continues. Get there while you can. It’s magical.
