A2A Safaris - Ross Couperhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/tags/ross-couperenQ&A with Ross Couper, Singita’s Resident Wildlife Photographerhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/qa-ross-couper-singita%E2%80%99s-resident-wildlife-photographer<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Singita Field Guide, Ross Couper, is one of the most well-known and -respected wildlife photographers in Africa. He is the man behind the lens of many of the images that you see on this blog and his stunning black-and-white prints adorn the walls of our head office in Cape Town. Ross’ lifelong passion for the...</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/people-singita" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">People of Singita</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sabi-sand" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sabi Sand</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-field-guide" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita Field Guide</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife-photography" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">wildlife photography</a></div></div>Thu, 05 Apr 2018 07:00:00 +0000Anonymous2775 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/qa-ross-couper-singita%E2%80%99s-resident-wildlife-photographer#commentsTracking Dream Team: Friends & Colleagues in the Bushhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/tracking-dream-team-friends-colleagues-the-bush<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Much like the <a href="http://animalsymbiosis.weebly.com/nile-crocodile-and-egyptian-plover-bird.html" target="_blank">plover and the crocodile</a>, trackers and field guides have a symbiotic relationship where they rely on each other’s talent and skill for mutual success. We often mention our field guides on the blog but their tracking partners are equally important for ensuring an action-packed game drive.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15672" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_13.jpg" alt="Johnson Mhlangu and Ross Couper - Singita Sabi Sand" width="863" height="403" srcset="http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_13.jpg 863w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_13-300x140.jpg 300w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_13-768x359.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 863px) 100vw, 863px" /></p>
<p>Tracker Johnson Mhlanga has been working with Ross Couper for four years, and together they are a dynamic pair of wildlife sleuths, taking guests on thrilling, twice-daily game drives in <a href="http://singita.com/region/singita-sabi-sand/" target="_blank">Singita Sabi Sand</a>. They are also known for their good humour, and Ross says that “when Johnson chuckles at something funny he almost falls off his tracker seat so I have learnt to keep the good jokes for when the vehicle has come to a complete stop!”</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15670" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_11.jpg" alt="tracker_11" width="980" height="980" srcset="http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_11.jpg 980w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_11-150x150.jpg 150w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_11-300x300.jpg 300w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_11-768x768.jpg 768w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_11-360x360.jpg 360w" sizes="(max-width: 980px) 100vw, 980px" /></p>
<p>Ross has great admiration for Johnson’s humility, skills and experience, and together they have formed a great connection that allows them to navigate the bush by the shared memory of countless wildlife sightings. As Ross puts it so beautifully: “The history of our relationship is our compass.”</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-15666" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_2-1024x704.jpg" alt="tracker_2" width="1024" height="704" srcset="http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_2-1024x704.jpg 1024w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_2-300x206.jpg 300w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_2-768x528.jpg 768w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_2.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p>
<p>This collaborative approach is a critical component in a guest’s experience; the wordless communication between tracker and guide often leaving them quite bemused as they silently track down an elusive leopard, a lion cub or a pack of wild dogs. Johnson has a particularly keen eye for spotting animals in the distance, knowing instinctively what they are before the sighting is verified using a pair of binoculars. And unlike those of us who are a little less experienced in the bush, these are never mistakenly-identified rocks or bushes!</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15671" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_12.jpg" alt="tracker_12" width="985" height="485" srcset="http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_12.jpg 985w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_12-300x148.jpg 300w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/tracker_12-768x378.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 985px) 100vw, 985px" /></p>
<p>As the tracking team venture out on each drive, Johnson’s contagious smile and quiet confidence warm our guests even on the coldest of days. They are a fine example of people who are friends as well as colleagues, enjoying each other’s company, sharing a passion and enriching the experience for all who are lucky enough to be a part of it.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15814" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Singita-Sweni-Lodge-Wildlife1.jpg" alt="Singita" width="1000" height="665" srcset="http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Singita-Sweni-Lodge-Wildlife1.jpg 1000w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Singita-Sweni-Lodge-Wildlife1-300x200.jpg 300w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Singita-Sweni-Lodge-Wildlife1-768x511.jpg 768w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Singita-Sweni-Lodge-Wildlife1-320x213.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><a href="http://singita.com/region/singita-sabi-sand/" target="_blank">Singita Sabi Sand</a>, which is a private concession that forms part of the greater Sabi Sand reserve, has been owned by the Bailes family since 1926. <a href="http://singita.com/lodge/singita-ebony-lodge-6/" target="_blank">Singita Ebony Lodge</a> and <a href="http://singita.com/lodge/singita-boulders-lodge-8/" target="_blank">Singita Boulders Lodge</a>, as well as exclusive-use property <a href="http://singita.com/lodge/singita-castleton/" target="_blank">Singita Castleton</a>, offer guests some of the most beautiful and luxurious safari accommodation in the world.</em></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="http://singita.com/people-of-singita/tracking-dream-team-friends-and-colleagues-in-the-bush/">Tracking Dream Team: Friends & Colleagues in the Bush</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/people-singita" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">People of Singita</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/field-guide" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">field guide</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sabi-sand" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sabi Sand</a></div></div>Tue, 26 Apr 2016 08:00:36 +0000Anonymous1946 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/tracking-dream-team-friends-colleagues-the-bush#commentsGrassland Giantshttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/grassland-giants<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p><em><a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-grumeti/" target="_blank">Singita Grumeti</a>, situated adjacent to the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, is an integral part of the Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem. Singita manages the concession on behalf of the non-profit Grumeti Community and Wildlife Conservation Fund, and is responsible for the long-term sustainability of the reserve. Elephants, the gentle giants of the grasslands, form an essential part of this ecosystem. Here field guide Ross Couper tells us more:</em></p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_4.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13581" alt="Elephants in the Serengeti - Singita Grumeti" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_4.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>Topographically, the Grumeti region comprises flat undulating grassy plains interrupted by scattered rocky areas, known as <em>kopjies</em>. Apart from the millions of blue wildebeest and several thousand zebra that move across the Serengeti grasslands every year, there are also several species that do not migrate.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13579" alt="Elephants in the Serengeti - Singita Grumeti" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_2.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>Elephants dwarf the other species in the region and, given the rich biodiversity in the Grumeti area, do not compete for food with the grazing herds. These lumbering giants are often described as highly emotional and demonstrate a significant level of intelligence. One such example is the way in which they have been known to treat elephant carcasses, showing an interest in retrieving the tusks and bones. This behaviour has been noted as a way of grieving a companion when they have passed on. This emotional connection is also apparent in the way in which elephants show concern for their family members, in particular the young calves within the herds.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13578" alt="Elephants in the Serengeti - Singita Grumeti" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_1.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13580" alt="Elephants in the Serengeti - Singita Grumeti" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_3.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>As a keystone species in the Serengeti – animals whose behaviour allows for other species to thrive and contributes to the biodiversity of an area – elephants help to naturally conserve their own habitat. They stop the progression of grassland into forest or woodland, thereby providing plenty of feed for the migrating mammals. By uprooting woody plants that spout among the grasses (which form the beginnings of a forest), elephants help to manage the life-giving plains, including the throngs of antelope, wildebeest and zebra, and the predators who feed on them. Without the work of these animals, the habitat would change or disappear, completely disrupting the migration and the ecosystem at large. It’s just one of the reasons why looking after Singita Grumeti’s elephant population, and those of all the other species that live there, is a critical part of the conservation process.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_5.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13582" alt="Elephants in the Serengeti - Singita Grumeti" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_5.jpg" /></a></p>
<div id="attachment_13583" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 640px"><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_6.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-13583" alt="Elephants in the Serengeti - Singita Grumeti" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/elephants_6.jpg" width="630" height="420" /></a><br /><p class="wp-caption-text">A close-up look at elephant hide</p>
</div>
<p><em>Spanning over 350,000 acres of untouched wilderness, Singita Grumeti is home to <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-grumeti/" target="_blank">five of Singita’s 12 lodges and camps</a>, including <a href="http://singita.com/explore-mobile-tented-camp/" target="_blank">Singita Explore</a>, a private-use mobile camp that offers guest an intimate and authentic connection with the landscape and its wildlife.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/grassland-giants/">Grassland Giants</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/lodges-and-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Lodges and Camps</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita Grumeti</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sustainable-conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sustainable Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wildlife</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/elephants" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">elephants</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div></div>Fri, 20 Nov 2015 13:52:34 +0000Anonymous1577 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/grassland-giants#commentsAn African Treasurehttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/an-african-treasure<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p><em>Field guide and wildlife photographer <a href="http://singita.com/blog/ross-couper-field-guide-and-wildlife-photographer/" target="_blank">Ross Couper</a> was born in Zimbabwe and grew up in the Matopos National Park, so he has a special connection to the country and its fauna and flora. Here he shares his knowledge and memories of the local African Wild Dog population with us: </em></p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13447" alt="Singita Pamushana, Zimbabwe" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__3.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/pamushana-lodge/" target="_blank">Singita Pamushana Lodge</a> is located within the private <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-malilangwe/" target="_blank">Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve</a> in southeastern Zimbabwe, which shares its southern boundary with Gonarezhou National Park. The park’s rich wildlife consists of 500 species of birds, 147 species of mammals, more than 116 species of reptiles, 34 species of frogs and 49 species of fish.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__5.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13449" alt="African wild dogs at Singita Pamushana Lodge, Malilangwe, Zimbabwe" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__5.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>Painted Dogs, also known as African Wild Dogs, are unique to Africa and they are among this continent’s most endangered species. It is estimated that less than 7,000 remain in the wild. One of my favourite experiences seeing these animals at Singita Pamushana was one winter’s morning when we drove out past a rocky section of the concession; a piece of land that would make an ideal location for their dens.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13445" alt="African wild dogs at Singita Pamushana Lodge, Malilangwe, Zimbabwe" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__1.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>As the land rover came to stop, above the early morning chorus of several birds, we could hear the distant calls from a hyena. It was a frantic scene; three hyena were moving in various directions, whooping and calling. Suddenly a flash of white appeared amongst the tall grass followed by three or four more – it was the wild dogs’s tails. Before we knew it, several pack members had arrived as if they are reinforcing the movement towards the hyenas. The scavengers beat a hasty retreat and the wild dogs feasted on the unfortunate impala ram that they had hunted earlier.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13446" alt="Singita Pamushana, Zimbabwe" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__2.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>Observing these precious animals in their natural habitat from the comfort of a game viewing vehicle is such a privilege, as is the ability to provide them with a safe, natural habitat in which to flourish. The 130,000-acre reserve was specifically established to conserve and protect this significant wilderness region; something it has done with great success since 1994.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__4.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13448" alt="Singita Pamushana, Zimbabwe" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/pamushana__4.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><em>All proceeds from the management of <a href="http://singita.com/pamushana-lodge/lodge-details/" target="_blank">Singita Pamushana Lodge</a> benefit the Malilangwe Trust, and its numerous conservation and community outreach programmes. This Zimbabwean-based and -managed Trust was set up to develop a blueprint for creating harmony between conservation initiatives and community development in villages that neighbour wildlife areas. You can read more about the Trust and Singita’s work in the area <a href="http://singita.com/conservation/singita-pamushana-biodiversity-protection-development/" target="_blank">on our website</a>. </em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/an-african-treasure/">An African Treasure</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/malilangwe-wildlife-reserve" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-pamushana-lodge" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita Pamushana Lodge</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wildlife</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/luxury-safari-zimbabwe" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">luxury safari in Zimbabwe</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div></div>Sat, 07 Nov 2015 10:00:27 +0000Anonymous1569 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/an-african-treasure#commentsRoss Couper: Field Guide and Wildlife Photographerhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/ross-couper-field-guide-and-wildlife-photographer<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_12.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9299" alt="Singita Field Guide Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_12.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>Field Guide <a href="http://singita.com/blog/tag/ross-couper/" target="_blank">Ross Couper</a> and his stunning wildlife photographs will be no stranger to regular readers of this blog. His keen eye for animals in interesting situations and the gorgeous landscapes surrounding our lodges have produced some of the finest photos we’ve ever had the privilege of publishing.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9288" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_1.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>Born in Zimbabwe, Ross grew up at <a href="http://www.zimparks.org/index.php/parks-overview/national/matobo" target="_blank">Matopos National Park</a>, where his father was Park Warden, and developed a deep love for capturing nature through painting and sculpture. The impracticalities of these art forms for an enthusiastic traveller like Ross brought forth an interest in photography as a way of documenting his surroundings. In this excerpt from his interview with the South African Tourism blog, he explains more about his passion for photography:</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9293" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_6.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Q: When did your passion for wildlife photography begin?</strong><br />
A: Photography happened because of a “don’t know what to get you for Christmas” situation with my wife. As a result she purchased my first camera with the hope of getting on top of my ‘Best Ever Christmas Gift’ list. In short, she has been up there ever since 2009. I had a great interest in art, however due to travelling the globe it limited my scope to take my art further, so receiving a camera was an outlet to capture my artistic view on life during my travels.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9289" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_2.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Q: What inspires your images?</strong><br />
A: Finding an artistic view of capturing a unique moment. Capturing an image where the viewer will be in awe of how the image was captured and evoke a feeling of being in the moment when it occurred. As a wildlife artist, I always had an idea in my head before putting it onto canvas and I find that I have the same inclination when it comes to my photography. I am a photographer that prefers to take time to really study my subjects. I like to effectively capture moments that showcase the beauty of the wildlife in Africa and the scenery that embraces in every inch of the content.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9290" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_3.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_11.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9298" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_11.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Q: How would you describe your style of photography?</strong><br />
A: I have a strong drive to acquire uniqueness in my images, by capturing the beauty of the African surroundings and its wildlife, with the hope that my photography will inspire people around the world to travel and visit the wild areas of Africa and experience the imagery that has been captured first hand. I’d describe my style of photography as artistic. I enjoy portraying a wildlife subject as if it were stepping out of the frame and engulfing the viewer to feel as though they were in the moment. Captivating an audience to view an image and wonder, just how was this photograph was captured. A profound quote by Anne Geddes that inspires me: “The best images are the ones that retain their strength and impact over the years, regardless of the number of times they are viewed”.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_4.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9291" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_4.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_10.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9297" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_10.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Q: What are the challenges regarding wildlife photography, and what attributes should a wildlife photographer have?</strong><br />
A: Patience, timing, light, subject availability are all just a few requirements that come to mind. There are always challenges but I believe it’s how you overcome a challenge that makes you a great photographer. For instance if the light is fading and you don’t get the shot you are looking for, keep persistent to attaining that image, go out again, focus on the goal and keep trying. I can recall an event where I was due to service my car and on route out of the National Park during a day off, I was informed that there was a leopard and two cubs sitting on a rocky outcrop within an hour’s detour to my route out of the park. I called the car dealership and mentioned I was running late. Finding the leopard on the rock and getting a glimpse of the leopard cubs resulted in me sitting in the back of the car with my eye glued to my cameras view finder for 5 hours waiting for a perfect view. After calling the car dealership for the third time I knew it would be better just to cancel as this was an opportunity of a lifetime.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_5.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9292" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_5.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_9.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9296" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_9.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Q: What would you say to foreigners wanting to come and visit South Africa’s wild spaces?</strong><br />
A; What are you waiting for? There is no place like Africa. It’s place where you cry when you arrive due its beauty and you will cry when you leave because of it’s beautiful people. It will engulf you and sink deep into heart as a special place that you will always return to. It’s a soul enriching visit.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_7.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9294" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_7.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_8.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9295" alt="Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ross_couper_8.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><em>Read the full interview on the <a href="http://www.southafrica.net/blog/en/posts/entry/photographer-profile-singitas-ross-couper" target="_blank">South African Tourism blog</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/singita_" target="_blank">follow us on Instagram</a> to see more of his beautiful photos from the bush.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/ross-couper-field-guide-and-wildlife-photographer/">Ross Couper: Field Guide and Wildlife Photographer</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/did-you-know" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Did You Know?</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/general" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">General</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/people-singita" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">People of Singita</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife-photography" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">wildlife photography</a></div></div>Mon, 04 May 2015 14:39:54 +0000Anonymous1311 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/ross-couper-field-guide-and-wildlife-photographer#commentsRecent Facebook Highlightshttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/recent-facebook-highlights<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Singita’s <a href="https://www.facebook.com/singita.gamereserves" target="_blank">Facebook</a> community has always been an active space where guests and fans share their thoughts and memories alongside beautiful snapshots by our rangers in the bush. In particular, there have been a number of stunning wildlife photos posted by field guide <a href="http://singita.com/?s=Ross+Couper" target="_blank">Ross Couper</a> from <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-sabi-sand/" target="_blank">Singita Sabi Sand</a> recently that have been shared far and wide. Here is a brief selection:</p>
<div id="attachment_9815" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 640px"><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/facebook_7.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-9815" alt="facebook_7" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/facebook_7.jpg" width="630" height="419" /></a><br /><p class="wp-caption-text">A pack of wild dog entertained each other, whilst guests watched in awe at the social interactions taking place. A perfect spring morning.</p>
</div>
<div id="attachment_9814" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 640px"><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/facebook_6.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-9814" alt="facebook_6" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/facebook_6.jpg" width="630" height="949" /></a><br /><p class="wp-caption-text">A tender moment of an elephant calf that was deserted and shortly afterwards adopted by another female elephant.</p>
</div>
<div id="attachment_9813" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 640px"><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/facebook_5.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-9813" alt="facebook_5" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/facebook_5.jpg" width="630" height="949" /></a><br /><p class="wp-caption-text">Confident, self assured, tranquil – a few words that come to mind whilst watching the Nyeleti male leopard grooming himself.</p>
</div>
<div id="attachment_9812" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 640px"><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/facebook_4.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-9812" alt="Facebook Highlights - Singita - Copyright Ross Couper" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/facebook_4.jpg" width="630" height="353" /></a><br /><p class="wp-caption-text">A young male leopard keeps attentive to his surroundings as the afternoon light fades to darkness.</p>
</div>
<p>You can see more of Singita Sabi Sand’s wildlife and landscapes in this “week in the life” video, shot by another of our talented field guides, <a href="http://singita.com/?s=Dylan+Brandt" target="_blank">Dylan Brandt</a>:</p>
<p><iframe src="//player.vimeo.com/video/93614971" width="480" height="272" frameborder="0" title="Singita Sabi Sand - A week in video" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><em><a href="https://www.facebook.com/singita.gamereserves" target="_blank">Follow us on Facebook</a> and join 13 000 other wildlife lovers who get regular updates from all twelve lodges in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Tanzania. One such example is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/singita.gamereserves/posts/853199798048243" target="_blank">this incredible face-off</a> between a hippo and a pride of lions, captured by a guest.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/recent-facebook-highlights/">Recent Facebook Highlights</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/experience" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Experience</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/lodges-and-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Lodges and Camps</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sabi-sand" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sabi Sand</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wildlife</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/facebook" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Facebook</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-field-guide" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita Field Guide</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife-photography" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">wildlife photography</a></div></div>Fri, 19 Sep 2014 10:39:41 +0000Anonymous1090 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/recent-facebook-highlights#commentsCreatures Great & Small: The Giant Snailhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/creatures-great-small-the-giant-snail<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/giant_snail.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9738" alt="Giant snail" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/giant_snail.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>With the green vegetation sprouting along the roadsides and over the grasslands, creatures from large to small are on the move. A few days ago, and within minutes of leaving the lodge, we noticed movement on the road. A giant African land snail glistened in the morning light.</p>
<p>Like almost all pulmonate gastropods, these snails are hermaphrodites, having male and female sex organs. Although giant African land snails primarily mate with one another, in more isolated regions they are capable of reproducing on their own. Giant African land snails lay around six clutches of eggs every year, laying an average of 200 eggs per clutch – that amounts to about 1 200 eggs per year! What is really incredible is that around 90% of snail hatchings survive.</p>
<p>Giant African land snails are active during the night and spend the daytime hours safely buried underground. They reach their adult size by the time they are six months old and although their growth rate slows at this point, they never stop growing. Most reach between five and six years of age but some individuals have been known to be more than ten years old. The giant African land snail seals itself inside its shell to retain water. They do this about three times a year, depending on the areas which they inhabit. During periods of extreme drought, they practice aestivation which is a type of ‘summer sleep’.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/singita_sabi_sand.jpg"><img src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/singita_sabi_sand.jpg" alt="Singita Sabi Sand, South Africa" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9740" /></a></p>
<p>Driving along looking in various directions for a twitch of an ear or a flicking tail, your eyes scan through the bush up and down, left and right. Often when looking for something large and obvious you miss the smaller treasures, without even realising it. </p>
<p><em>This description of an encounter with a giant snail by Ross Couper first appeared in the <a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Singita-Sabi-Sand-Wildlife-Report-November-2013.pdf" target="_blank">November 2013 Wildlife Report from Singita Sabi Sand</a>. The monthly ranger diaries are written by the field guides themselves and contain plenty of delightful stories and stunning photographs from the bush. You can catch up on the Wildlife Reports from all the Singita lodges and camps <a href="http://singita.com/blog/wildlife-report/" target="_blank">here</a>.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/creatures-great-small-the-giant-snail/">Creatures Great & Small: The Giant Snail</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/did-you-know" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Did You Know?</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/experience" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Experience</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sabi-sand" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sabi Sand</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/safari" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Safari</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wildlife</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div></div>Tue, 09 Sep 2014 07:00:21 +0000Anonymous1084 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/creatures-great-small-the-giant-snail#commentsCurious Catshttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/curious-cats<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Just in! Field Guide <a href="http://singita.com/blog/tag/ross-couper/" target="_blank">Ross Couper</a> from <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-sabi-sand/" target="_blank">Singita Sabi Sand</a> sent through this incredible snapshot from Thursday afternoon’s game drive. In it, a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serval" target="_blank">serval</a> faces off with a pair of cheetahs: </p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/SSS-1-320.jpg"><img src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/SSS-1-320.jpg" alt="Cheetah vs Serval by Ross Couper" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-9212" /></a></p>
<p>“Upon a approaching a cheetah sighting, a serval and two cubs were seen moving through the grass within meters of the cheetah. The serval’s movement caught the attention of the cheetah after the adult serval attempted to catch a rodent in the grass. A chase ensued and the adult serval was surrounded by the two cheetah. A moment of sheer aggression from the serval saved its life and several tense minutes were felt amongst the guests viewing the interaction. As dusk settled we returned back to the lodge, the fate of the serval unknown. It was a true privilege to witness this interaction in the wild.”</p>
<p><em>Ross regularly shares his stunning wildlife photos with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/singita.gamereserves" target="_blank">our Facebook community</a>, so follow us there for the latest sightings, direct from the bush!</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/curious-cats/">Curious Cats</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sabi-sand" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sabi Sand</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wildlife</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/cheetah" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">cheetah</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife-photography" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">wildlife photography</a></div></div>Mon, 09 Jun 2014 14:09:35 +0000Anonymous980 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/curious-cats#commentsLion Line-Uphttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/lion-line<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>This photo of the Mhangeni pride walking in what appears to be military formation through Singita Sabi Sand, was taken last week by Field Guide Ross Couper. Of the unusual and entertaining sighting, he says: “As the honey coloured morning light filtered through the mist on the horizon, we knew we were in for a very good morning.” Ross’ stunning photo was even <a href="https://twitter.com/rosscouperphoto/status/463598166101618689" target="_blank">featured in the Cape Times</a> a few days later, aptly captioned “Dawn Patrol”.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/lions_by_ross_couper_copyright_singita_2014.jpg"><img src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/lions_by_ross_couper_copyright_singita_2014.jpg" alt="Lion photo by Ross Couper Copyright 2014" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8987" /></a></p>
<p><em>Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/singita.gamereserves" target="_blank">Facebook</a> to see more wildlife shots straight from our field guides in the bush. </em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/lion-line-up/">Lion Line-Up</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sabi-sand" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sabi Sand</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wildlife</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-field-guide" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita Field Guide</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife-photography" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">wildlife photography</a></div></div>Thu, 08 May 2014 12:18:58 +0000Anonymous943 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/lion-line#commentsElephant Antics at Singita Sabi Sandhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/elephant-antics-singita-sabi-sand<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p><em>One story from our <a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Singita-Sabi-Sand-Wildlife-Report-March-2014.pdf" target="_blank">latest Wildlife Report</a> from <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-sabi-sand/" target="_blank">Singita Sabi Sand</a> got plenty of attention this week and was shared on various news and social media networks worldwide. It’s easy to see why when you look at this amusing series of photos by field guides Leon van Wyk and Ross Couper – they certainly gave us the giggles!</em></p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_2.jpg"><img src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_2.jpg" alt="Marula tree at Singita Sabi Sand" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8926" /></a></p>
<p>Time has once again flown by, and yet another marula season has come and gone. February 2014 saw a real bumper crop of these delicious fruit being produced by the many hundreds of marula trees that are to be found at <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-sabi-sand/" target="_blank">Singita Sabi Sand</a>. Various animals were seen tucking into this fruity feast with great gusto! Not only the elephants, who are so famous for enjoying these smooth-skinned, large-stoned fruits, but also monkeys, baboons, impala, kudu, warthogs, zebra… and, of course, humans.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_3.jpg"><img src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_3.jpg" alt="Elephant antics at Singita Sabi Sand" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8927" /></a></p>
<p>There has long been an African myth about the marula fruit intoxicating large mammals that have consumed huge amounts of the fallen fruit. This bush legend played in my mind recently when we had a sighting of an elephant herd moving through the bush, feeding on the fermenting marula fruit. The younger elephants walked behind the older siblings, picking up and eating the fruit as they moved – the older elephants seemed to be ‘teaching’ the youngsters what was safe to eat. An adult cow had forcefully shaken a nearby marula tree, knocking off lots of the fruit, which a few younger elephants passed by our vehicle to eat. We watched in awe because the youngsters definitely seemed to display signs of being rather tipsy!</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_5.jpg"><img src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_5.jpg" alt="Elephant antics at Singita Sabi Sand" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8929" /></a></p>
<p>As amusing as the idea may be, it is in fact extremely unlikely. In reality, an elephant eating only marulas may consume roughly 30kg in one day or approximately 714 individual fruits. This is less than half of the marulas needed to produce intoxication. There have been reports of elephant behaviour that resembles an intoxicated state, but research shows that this is unlikely to occur only from eating marulas. </p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_4.jpg"><img src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_4.jpg" alt="Elephant antics at Singita Sabi Sand" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8928" /></a></p>
<p>It has been speculated that the behaviour may be the result of the elephants eating beetle pupae that live in the bark of marula trees. These pupae have traditionally been used by the San people to poison their arrow tips, and this toxin could lead to behavioural changes in animals that consume it. Another explanation is that bull elephants, who are particularly fond of marula fruit, are simply defending their favourite food resource. </p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_1.jpg"><img src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ellies_1.jpg" alt="Elephant antics at Singita Sabi Sand" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8925" /></a></p>
<p><em>The beautiful elephants of <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-sabi-sand/" target="_blank">Singita Sabi Sand</a> feature regularly in our monthly <a href="http://singita.com/blog/wildlife-report/" target="_blank">Wildlife Reports</a> and on our <a href="http://singita.com/social/" target="_blank">social media pages</a>. Spanning more than 45,000 acres, this concession is also renowned for high concentrations of big game and frequent leopard sightings.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/elephant-antics-at-singita-sabi-sand/">Elephant Antics at Singita Sabi Sand</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/experience" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Experience</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sabi-sand" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sabi Sand</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/wildlife" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Wildlife</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/elephants" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">elephants</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/ross-couper" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Ross Couper</a></div></div>Sat, 26 Apr 2014 08:05:28 +0000Anonymous930 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/elephant-antics-singita-sabi-sand#comments