Burchell’s Zebra, Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania

Gleefully sitting atop this Zebra is a hungry oxpecker bird — just awaiting a small insect to appear from the black & white stripes!

 

African Elephants, Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania

These enormous creatures live in herds which, unlike many other animals, are led by a dominant female called a “Matriarch”.

 

Masai Giraffe, Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania

Largest of the giraffe subspecies, the Masai giraffe can attain a height of over 20 feet! They have a really large heart (that pumps blood all the way up the long neck to the head) which can weigh 25 pounds.Very shy in appearance, if attacked by a lion or hyena, the giraffe can inflict serious injury by kicking with their sharp hooves!

 

Bateleur Eagle, Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania

This magnificent raptor inhabits the savannas of East Africa, searching for birds and small mammals as food.

 

Mountain Gorilla, Park des Vulcans, Rwanda

A young gorilla pauses a moment to look back at our film crew…when visiting these endangered species, you can get really close — about 15 feet! But, you’re only allowed to stay with them for one hour.

 

African Lion Cub, Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania

At the young age of 3 or 4 months, this lion cub stays close to the pride for food and protection.

 

Burchell’s Zebra, Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania

Many hooved animals, like zebras, live in herds for a couple of reasons. There are many more eyes to watch for predators, and when attacked by a lion the herd is a massive cluster of stripes—which makes it tough for a lion that must single out an individual for a tasty meal!

 

African Lion, Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania

The lion is the undisputed predator of the savanna. Lion prides are led by dominant males. Dominance lasts only so long, though…new males are always trying to fight for the top position. Notice the scratch marks that this male has endured from defending his position!