The visiting teacher / field researcher gave me an important lesson on avoiding death by wild animal during our walk into the Ngorongoro forest yesterday. If I want to make it through the remainder of these two years further unscathed the following are some things I must know.
Elephants. Tembo are sensitive to smell but can’t distinguish objects farther than 30 meters. If you see a tembo check which way the wind is blowing and ensure you are downwind. If you are spotted and you must run, run downhill. The clumsy tembo will stumble over itself and its big Africa-shaped ears will flap over its eyes.
Buffalo. Nyati have a keen sense of sight; they can see up to 50 meters and are sensitive to light. When entering the forest avoid wearing shiny, reflective objects such as eyeglasses and wristwatches. A herd of nyati is usually docile but when aggravated they can become fatally fierce. If you see a herd immediately assume the fetal position. The nyati will nudge you out of curiosity but will eventually pass. Because they are social creatures, finding a lone nyati means finding an upset and potentially deadly nyati. If there is no tree to climb, you may be as good as dead.
Lions. Simba aren’t dangerous until they are hungry and already stalking you. If you see one, stand perfectly still and wait for them to pass.
I haven’t found any bear mace here in Tanzania but I’m not sure how much good it would do me anyway. The bottom line is that I won’t be making any trips to the forest on my own.
