Vaviseka

He stopped limping and turned to watch us as we went by.

Vaviseka means “injured” in Tsonga.

Gnu, or wildebeest, are common in most areas of the wild in Africa, and this one was no exception. But he was on his own surviving an earlier attempt to be hunted by one of the apex predators, which had unfortunately also led him away from his herd. And as with most battles, there is injury, and in nature, injury matters. Weakened or injured animals are easy prey and quickly sought after, so his chances to return to his former self were thin at best.

We had spotted him early in the day - probably just after the attack - as he had chosen a secluded group of trees and some relatively thick bush to hide in. He seemed to struggle to move as his one hind leg was limp and refused to move naturally. But it allowed him to stand his ground to hopefully recover in this relatively hidden space. Nature is straight-forward, and he knew he needed time and some luck to heal sufficiently to continue to live as he did. As he chewed the nutrient-rich grass, allowing his body to rest and heal, his occasional soft snort and glances around told us he was aware of his plight and had challenging days ahead. If a predator discovered him now, he would have no chance to survive. So it was with some reluctance that we left the scene, with the early sun setting behind us, and I wondered how he would fare that night as I heard the first distant roars of lions preparing for their hunt that evening.

Wildebeests are known for their constant movement, both day and night, driven by the pursuit of water sources and preferred grasses. So his priority to continue to survive was to return and find safety once again by rejoining his herd. A few mornings later, we came across him again, in the same place. He was looking much better; his eyes were more alive, and his gait was more fluid. It was, in fact, incredible to me how quickly he seemed to have healed, as he stood watching us for a few moments before turning away and eventually breaking into a quick gallop in the direction of his passing herd.

Raw Africa Collection

Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, and the life giving.

This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful, gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen for it. This photographic journey explores, profiles, and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. From its deep bush to its dry savannah and desert, Africa remains a place where life is represented by timeless vistas that are distilled into moments to treasure.