Despite a few unfortunate events at Khaudum National Park, there were plenty of positive and remarkable memories made. Within its remote location and harsh landscape, the Kalahari Desert around Khaudum National Park is full of life. With summer and the rainy season not far away, most animals had started a new generation of life already. Watching animal offspring is just as amusing as watching human youngsters. I didn’t expect to see this explosion of wildlife here in dry and dusty conditions. I was proven wrong once more. With little human intervention, these animals can roam as they wish. That alone is a step in the right direction.
Gemsbok herd with young ones cross the dry riverbed, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
All Antelope had young ones in their herd. This Oryx herd ran off before I got my camera ready. Driving and taking photos still isn’t any easier.
Roan Antelope are very careful at a young age, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
The Roan Antelope herds I saw all had quite a few newborn.
Like father, like sons, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
These wildebeest were last years generation, nevertheless, cute to watch at the source of life.
Pumba’s family by the waterhole, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
The warthog family lined up around this waterhole.
Evening stroll with the chicks! Khaudum National Park, Namibia
I surprised this ostrich father and little ones after sunset, coming around a tight corner.
Chicks head sticking out now and then, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
The chicks were barely as tall as the grass, trying to keep up with dad.
Five lion cubs carefully watched by mom and dad, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
The lion cubs I watched for 3 days were just as curious about me. It’s nice to know that they have a bright future ahead in this National Park.
Young elephants surrounded by their herd, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
The playful youngster award clearly goes to the elephants. OM-D, watching these clowns of the desert is something everyone should see.
Shaking it all, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
Whether they were imitating their brothers behaviour.
Side by side, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
Or walked in line with their mom.
Elephant youngsters are very touchy, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
Some were up to mischief, their tiny tusks give away their young age. Although elephants don’t have a calving season, there were many many around.
Always seeking moms shelter in uncertain moments, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
Most of the times, they were seeking shelter from mom. Closely watched by mom and other adults of the herd, the youngsters enjoyed their youthful freedom.
A little help, please! Khaudum National Park, Namibia
Particularly around water and mud holes, the young elephants seemed to have lost their sense of reality.
The calves safety is mom’s priority, Khaudum National Park, Namibia
Coming out off a waterhole is a slippery task for those short elephant legs. Mom and the rest off the herd always lend a helping trunk. I really do hope to see all these youngsters just as wild and free next time I visit Khaudum National Park. What a magnificent part of the Kalahari Desert.
Travels with Ben 