A breathtaking sunrise was unfolding as the call of the African Mourning Dove echoed through the forest, playing an integral role in the symphony of nature. We were driving through Lake Manyara National Park, in an area dense with lush forest and majestic trees that towered over the horizon. I suppose some of these trees are over 100 years old. I could identify toad trees, mahogany, sycamore figs, quinine and acacia. These trees are true warriors of life – they have withstood storms, pollution, floods, and droughts. They teach us profound lessons in resilience even when the interconnecting branches support one another.
I wonder if children today still know the joy of simply climbing a tree. In my early childhood, I used to climb as high as I possibly could.
We then made our way to the hippopotamus pool. Their Greek name fits well chosen – hippos being potatoes of rivers. Some were basking by the water, others submerged, with just their foreheads, back, flapping ears and snorting nostrils peeking. It was surprisingly fast-moving, reaching speeds of 50.0 km/h and 8 km/h in water. These beasts are not just Africa’s most dangerous land mammals – they are often reputed to be responsible for more human fatalities in Africa than any other mammal.
Mr Mndeme, our guide, once told me that years ago he witnessed a hippo at Kiyoga springs manage to shoot down a crocodile’s spine, launching it like a beast charging at you at full speed! It was a best reminder that you never let your guard down around the hippo pools. The flamingo flocks coming to rest in the shallow, alkaline waters of Lake Manyara, always lighten the load.
High in the fig tree canopies, Blue Monkeys rested, as if enjoying the view while watching us, too. Suddenly, they let out their name, whistling into the foliage to announce their presence. Their expressive eyes, ebony-coloured fur and long tails revealed their evolutionary brilliance. They prefer less vegetation, perhaps to better flee ground-level threats like pythons and leopards. Others remain within their natal groups, while females occupy safe foraging zones.
Then, we heard a mysterious sound – an elusive call we had come to witness. The Tambourine Dove, released a rhythmic drumming call, reminiscent of a tambourine beat. So well hidden it often remains hidden, and when startled, it darts through the trees like a fighter jet. And so, we left.
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📩 Raphael Mbunda, Leganga Lodge at Usa River. Birding is his hobby. He can be reached at mbundarb11@gmail.com
