Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Walking With Lions

While in Zambia, I had the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with lions. These animals were raised in captivity, but nevertheless wild! I was able to pet them and hold their tails as we hiked together through the forest. These particular lions were 18 months old.
Your question: Describe the social interactions of lions as they grow. How does playtime actually help them learn the skills they need for survival? Please post your findings.

I apologize for the photos! I am not sure why they are flipped. My access to technology has been limited.




Where in the World is Ms.Morrison?

Your mission is to find the following places on a map and do a little bit of investigating on the internet. What is the climate like? The geography? Am I experiencing summer or winter here? In this way, you can travel along with me!

PLACES I HAVE BEEN INCLUDE:
Johannesburg, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
Livingstone, Zambia
Chobe National Forest, Botswana
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

I AM HEADED TO:
Polokwone, South Africa
Soutspansberg Mountains, South Africa
Amsterdam, The Netherlands (in Europe as a layover during my flight home)

Post any information you can find about these locations so we can all learn from one another!

Today I head to Lajuma Research Center to begin my research...

My sightseeing has come to an end! It is July 17 and I will be heading into the Soutspansberg Mountains to a permanent camp. I will also be meeting fellow researchers today and some professors from universities. So exciting! The focus of my research is on the conservation of larger predators and some primates.
But, since we know that everything is connected (food web!), I will also be collecting and analyzing data on vegetation and small prey species.
How will I do this? I will be using scouting cameras, radio-telemetry,  and analyzing scat (poop!).
Time to go...need time for breakfast and I need to catch a plane to Polokwone!

Victoria Falls

When I completed my interactions with elephants, cheetahs, and lions in Zambia, I continued on to Zimbabwe to experience the incredible power of Victoria Falls. Did you know that Victoria Falls is one of the Natural Wonders of the World? Your questions: How was Victoria Falls formed? Where exactly is it located? On which river is it? Share your findings below.




Cheetahs in Zambia

After a week in South Africa, I moved on to Zambia. I wanted to learn more about cheetah conservation efforts here. I have discovered that there is so much to learn here! Your question: Why are cheetahs in danger? Are their populations increasing? Please share your findings below.


Made it to Africa

Hi kids! After 23 hours of traveling, I have made it to Africa! Currently I am outside of Johannesburg. I will be heading to Cape Town tomorrow to learn more about penguins and seals. More to come...

The Cape of Good Hope

During the first week of July, I made it to the Cape of Good Hope. It was breathtaking! Your question: What is the Cape of Good Hope and why is it famous? Please post your response below.


Rhinos in South Africa in Danger From Poaching

As I am on this amazing journey in Africa, I have discovered that while many people value conservation, there are still many who place animals' lives in danger for a quick profit. Why is poaching a problem, especially for the white rhino? What types of conservation efforts are currently taking place? What are wildlife reserves doing to reduce the risk of poaching? Hint: Think removal of horns and poisons. Share your well developed responses below for us to read and enjoy!