Wildlife-Schulbuch

Cheetahs are one of the most endangered animals in the world. There are only between 6000 and 10000 Cheetahs left in the African wilderness. Therefore in 1998 Matto Barfuss founded the non-profit organiza- tion “Life for Cheetahs” to save these wonderful cats and their habitat. This book is a present to the children of Africa. It was created by the organization „Life for Cheetahs“ to show you that it is possible for people and wild animals to live together peacefully. And don’t forget: YOUR Wildlife is richness because it is sadly becoming incre- asingly rare in the world. ’“Life for Cheetahs/ Leben für Geparden”, D-77866 Rheinau, Germany, www.geparden.de 2

Dear Children and Dear Reader, My name is Matto Barfuss but I am also known as “the chee- tah man” in Germany. I received this name because I lived on the African savannah together with a family of wild chee- tahs for many months but I will tell you more about that story later. Matto Barfuss A long time ago in Europe, (which is where I live) there used to be vast nature reserves with many wild animals but now almost everything has been destroyed. This is because we wanted to build roads, factories and houses in Europe and now we have many problems with the pollution of the environment and with disease. We have realised that we made mistakes and are very sad because we can’t easily get back our nature reserves. Unfortunately, today, when we want to enjoy nature and wild animals we have to travel very far away, for example 3

we travel to your home, Africa, but for most of the people living in Europe this is also quite expensive. The elephants, lions, and cheetahs, as well as many other large and small animals (and even plants and water), that are in your country are really very precious, very valuable, and very important to all of us. Sadly, we have realised our mistakes too late but we still want to help you to avoid the same mistakes that we have made in the past. We would like to show you that it is possible to live together (even in limited spaces) with all animals - including the dangerous ones - without chasing them away with fires or even without killing them. Therefore, we would like to introduce some of the ani- mals that live around you so you can see what they look like, and I hope you enjoy the painted images. It is a great pleasure, to donate this book to you all. Tog- ether we need to protect your country with all its precious richness of wonderful wild animals and nature. You can be very proud because Zambia and Africa is your home and a very special place. Yours, Matto Barfuss (President of the non-profit organization „Life for Cheetahs“) 4

The Cheetah House A symbol for the preservation of biodiversity Matto Barfuss has created the Cheetah House in Helm- stedt (Germany). The house is a symbol of biodiversity. Preserving the variety of species on earth is a great challenge for all humans. Every culture and every ani- mal and plant species is important to sustain life on this planet. Humans should learn to live with animals and nature instead of against animals and nature. The House was created out of admiration for the great people and animal diversity in Africa. It’s a special gift when humans and animals can live together like that in a magnificent natural area. To make sure it stays that way and that this awareness keeps growing, Matto Barfuss is dedicating this artwork to the Kalahari. The protection of species is everyone’s concern You should also know that many children in Europe are interested in learning about the wild animals living in your country. They are appealing to you to protect them. 5

Living with cheetahs The Serengeti is a huge savannah in Tanzania. You will find mainly grassland savannah there, which the chee- tahs like very much. Matto Barfuss with the cheetah mother in the Serengeti. One day, I came across a cheetah family with five young cubs. I actually only wanted to stay for a few days to take some photographs of their daily life but then I literally fell in love with them. One evening, I left the car and crawled on my hands and knees into the savannah. The cheetah cubs became very curious and cautiously they came closer, I didn’t expect that at all! The cheetah mother didn’t like it and she even wanted to attack me. In that situation I could do nothing 6

else but try to behave like a cheetah and to my surprise little by little the cheetahs accepted me as part of their family. I am sure this sounds unbelievable but just look at the pictures in this book of the cheetahs. I learned their special language and soon began to un- derstand their behaviour. This enabled me to share their life on my hands and knees for 25 weeks. Of course there were close encounters with lions and other dangerous animals and I also had to learn very quickly how to be- have in the right way to protect myself from them. That really didn’t prove to be too difficult and I gained a lot of experiences that I would like to pass on to you. Matto Barfuss and the wild cheetahs on the Serengeti plain. 7

What is a CHEETAH? Acinonyx jubatus Cheetahs are one of the world’s most beautiful, majestic cats. They have yellow coloured fur with dark spots or streaks on it. Cheetahs also have small heads with yellow/brown eyes and 2 black stripes running down their faces (these are called tear marks). Cheetahs are not as large or as strong as lions but the sight of a sprinting cheetah is certainly one of the most spectacular sights in Africa. Amazingly a cheetah can run as fast as a car and is famous for being the world’s fastest land animal. An adult cheetah To help them run fast they have been perfectly designed by nature with long legs, a thin, sleek body, a flexible backbone and long claws that grip the ground. What is the difference between a cheetah and a leopard? At first cheetahs and leopards look the same because 9

they both have yellow coloured fur but actually cheetahs have yellow fur with dark spots or streaks while leopards have yellow fur with dark rosette patterns. They are also different in many other ways. Cheetahs are mainly active during the day and like to live in large open grassland savannahs. Leopards are mostly active at night and live close to wooded bush land, forests, and water. Cheetahs have small heads with yellow/brown eyes and 2 black stripes running down their faces. Leopards have a large head, green eyes and no tear marks. Cheetahs also look longer and thinner than leopards which have thicker rounder bodies. Cheetahs rarely climb trees whereas leopards climb, rest and often eat in trees. In which type of place do cheetahs like to live? Cheetahs like to live on large open grasslands called “savannahs”. Sometimes we call the “place” or type of surrounding in which an animal likes to live a “habitat”. What do cheetahs eat? Cheetahs are carnivores and a carnivore is an animal that only eats meat. Cheetahs like to hunt during the day, when other predators are resting. They hunt small antelopes, warthogs and hares by stal- king their prey and when they are close enough cheetahs use their lightening speed to catch them. 10

How do cheetah families live? Female cheetahs give birth to 4 - 6 cubs that the mother will hide away in the tall grass or bushes. The cubs have long hairs running down their backs that helps to make them difficult to see in the grass and if they get lost or separa- ted from their mother they “mee ow” just like a house cat. Young cheetahs stay with their mo- ther until they are about one and a half years old and then the family separates. Usually cheetahs like to live alone but sometimes brothers like to live together. An adult cheetah starting to hunt What are the threats to cheetahs? Sadly there are only about 5,000 - 10,000 cheetahs left in the wild. There are so few left because the places where chee- tahs live are changing. People often change the land by burning, ploughing and planting it for their own uses. They do not intend to harm the cheetahs but sometimes changing the land makes it difficult for the cheetahs to survive. Sometimes cheetahs are removed from the land or even killed if they eat the farmer’s sheep and goats. 11

they are part of a natural system that helps all these animals live happily together, take away the cheetahs and other animals may also disappear too. What should you do if you see a cheetah? If you discover a resting cheetah the safest and kindest thing to do is to STAY AWAY from it – DO NOT “run or shout” as this will frighten it and may bring attention to yourself. If you surprise a cheetah, don’t worry it will usually run away. However sometimes a frightened cheetah will stop and “snarl or hiss” it is warning you to stay away. It doesn’t really want to hurt you so STAND STILL and „stay calm and quiet“, let it move away. When it starts to walk away you can then try to walk away and find a safe place to hide in, such as a tree or thick bush. Young cheetah training to creep 13

However if the cheetah starts to move towards you must first „quickly find a tree to climb“ if there are no trees then STAND STILL and CLAP your hands together shouting loudly at the same time. This should make it go away. If however this fails and you are still chased, lie on the ground, staying ABSOLUTELY STILL AND QUIET until the cheetah goes away. Remember that cheetahs have superb eyesight so it is likely that if you see a cheetah it has almost certainly seen you already but don’t be afraid! Cheetahs will not normally attack people and are only a danger if they have cubs, are injured or feel threatened. CHEETAH QUIZ! Aren’t cheetahs amazing animals? You now know a lot more about cheetahs, don’t you? So, how about a “cheetah quiz”? Here we go! 1. Can you describe what a cheetah looks like? 2. We know a cheetah can run amazingly fast but which parts of its body are designed to help it to run so fast? 3. Can you remember the differences between cheetahs and leopards? 4. In which type of surroundings do cheetahs like to live in and what is a habitat? 14

What is a LEOPARD? Panthera pardus A leopard is a very secretive wild cat. Leopards have yellow coloured fur with dark rosette patterns on it (alt- hough some leopards can be as black as the night). They have thick necks, a large head with green eyes and very strong, powerful bodies. In which type of habitat do leopards like to live? Leopards can be found in many different habitats but really like to live in wooded bushland and forests. You would be very lucky to see a leopard because they hide away so cleverly but sometimes you can see one resting in a tree. Leopards are also very shy animals that are more active at night. They like to live alone and usually in their own territo- ries. A territory is an area of land where usually only a few related animals or just one individual animal of a particular species lives and hunts. Many animals inclu- ding leopards mark their territory with scent or urine to warn other animals to stay away because this is their home. They also guard their homes by bravely fighting and chasing away any other leopards. Female leopards give birth to 2 - 4 cubs that will stay with her for up to 2 years but once they get too big they have to leave and find their own place to live in. 16

Leopards like to sleep What do leopards eat? Leopards are carnivores just like cheetahs and eat many different types of animals such as snakes, birds, monkeys, warthogs and impala. They are excellent tree climbers and are so strong that they can even climb a tree whilst still carrying a large animal in its mouth. They do this to help protect themselves and their meal from lions and hyenas. By hiding their food in a tree they can eat it over several days in complete safety and without disturbance from other hungry animals. When do leopards hunt? Leopards do most of their hunting at night. They can see as well at night as we can in the day and they hunt by stalking an animal or by lying totally still and then at just the right moment „pouncing“ on it. Sometimes leopards may even drop out of a tree onto an animal. 17

Why are leopards so important? Leopards are like Africa itself beautiful, fascinating and secretive. Leopards capture the spirit of Africa and people always become excited when they see one. They are also very important because along with other predators leopards help to control the number of other wild animals living in a certain area. Without predators like leopards the plant-eating animals would become too many making it difficult for them to find enough food to survive. What are the threats to leopards? Unfortunately many leopards are losing their homes because the forests and bushes were they live are being chopped down. When this happens they have nowhere to live and hide and their natural food source disappears. Leopards are then often forced to kill domestic livestock to survive but then the farmers may kill the leopard to protect their animals. Leopards are also sometimes hunted for their wonderful fur. What do you do if you see a leopard? Should you see a leopard the safest and kindest thing to do is to „stay away from it and do not run or shout“, as this will frighten it and may bring attention to yourself. If you come across one by surprise, don’t worry it 18

will usually r u n a w a y. H o w e v e r sometimes a f r i g h t e - ned leopard w i l l s t o p and „snarl or hiss“ it is warning you to stay away. It doesn’t re- ally want to h u r t y o u s o just „stand still“ and „stay calm and quiet“, let it move away. When it starts to walk away you can then try to walk away and find a safe place to hide in, such as a tree or thick bush. However if the leopard starts to move towards you try first to „quickly find a tree to climb“ if there are no trees then „stand still“ and „clap your hands together“ shouting loudly at the same time. This should make it go away. If however this fails and you are still chased lie on the ground, staying absolutely „still and quiet“ until the leopard goes away. Remember leopards will not normally attack people and are only a danger, if they have cubs, are injured or feel threatened. Adult leopard 19

What is a LION? Panthera leo Lions are actually very large cats with huge feet and claws and massive sharp teeth. Only male lions though have a mane. A mane is a large growth of hair that grows around the male lions head, neck and shoulders when it is about 2 years old. Lions are very special animals because whenever people think of Africa they immediately think of lions. Everybody who visits Africa wants to see a lion because they have a famous reputation for being strong and fearless. In which type of habitat do lions like to live? Lions like to live on the open grasslands, in open bush or even in rocky places. Lions live in large territories and will fight other lions to defend them and protect their fa- milies. During the day lions especially like to stay in the long grass or under trees hiding away from the sun and disturbances. They are actually very lazy animals and will spend nearly all day resting. Adult male lion 21

Do lions live together? Yes, lions are the most sociable of all the big cats and like to live in large family groups called prides and alt- hough the females take the most care of the family the older males are always in charge. Female lions can give birth to up to 8 mischievous little cubs that like nothing more than to chase things and play with each all day. The fe- male cubs will usually stay with the same pride all their lives but the younger males will be chased away to make new families of their own. What do lions eat? Lions are big carnivorous cats that eat meat. They will eat almost any animal large or small although they mainly eat zebra, warthog, buffalo and wildebeest. Lions have huge appetites and like to hunt from early evening up to early morning. The female lions also do most of the hunting but the older male lions always eat first. They have excellent eyesight and can see very well in the dark. 22 Lioness

Why are lions so important? Lions are truly respected by many other animals and by people who admire them for their power, strength and bravery. The lion is the symbol of Africa and of exciting, unexplored wild places. Lions also play an important part in helping to keep Africa beautiful and healthy because by preying on the sick, weak and injured animals lions help to maintain the healthy na- tural balance of all Africa’s magnificent wildlife. What are the threats to lions? Lions are so strong they have no natural enemies alt- hough occasionally angry elephants and buffalo may try to kill them. Lions often venture close to where people live but they are not looking for people they are attracted to the cattle, sheep and goats. Lions do not understand that these animals belong to people and are often killed by people who need to protect themselves and their domestic animals. Usually if there is a herdsman together with the cattle then lions don’t like to come close, so many people in Africa guard their herds in this way. Some unlucky lions can also catch diseases from do- mestic dogs. These diseases are a serious threat to the lions as they can kill them. What should you do if you see a lion? Should you see a lion the safest and kindest thing to do is to „stay away“ from it; „do not run or shout“, as this will 23

frighten it and may bring attention to yourself. A lion will usually warn you to stay away by growling and snarling at you but it doesn’t really want to hurt you so just „be friendly” and slowly walk away from it. Do not run, stay calm and quiet and just walk backwards slowly. A lion will usually only become dangerous and attack if it feels threatened, has cubs or is injured. If it does charge you stand perfectly still, „stay calm and quiet,“ be brave, do not run, wait to see what it’s going to do. A charging lion will normally stop just before it reaches you and then walk away. Let it walk away and then try to slowly walk away yourself. Remember a lion’s instinct is to chase moving objects so don’t crawl on the ground, stand up and let it know that you’re also strong. If it does continue to come towards you, „quickly climb a tree“ if there are no trees then stand still and clap your hands and shout loudly to try to frigh- ten it away. If this fails and you are still chased try to „lie absolutely still and quiet“ until it goes away. Another good thing to remember is that lions don’t really like to swim but if you go into any water you must take care of the croco- diles. It’s also always a good idea when out walking to make lots of noise or even sing especially in long grass or bushes. This is becau- se if a lion hears or sees you first it will probably run away. 24 Young male lion

LION QUIZ! Now you know who is the king of the beasts „The majestic lion“. And it’s now time for another quiz „the lion quiz“. Good luck, and we wish you a roaring success! 1. Can you describe what a lion looks like? 2. Can you remember if it’s the male or female lion that has a mane? 3. Where do lions like to live and what do we call a family of lions? 4. Why are lions so important? 5. You learned that lions are very strong and brave but can you explain what some of the threats to lions are? 6. And most importantly can you remember what you should do if you see a lion? (Answers on page 57) Lion cub loves its mother 25

What is a Spotted Hyena? Crocuta crocuta Hyenas are car- rion feeders. But o f t e n t h e y a l s o hunt, namely when they’re unable to find enough carrion. This happens especially in those areas where there aren’t as many predators. Spotted hyenas are larger and stronger than wild dogs and brown hyenas. They have light brown to medium brown fur with numerous speckles. Their hind legs are much shorter than their front legs, which means that they can’t run very fast. Their head is large and they have round ears. Hyenas have the sharpest teeth of all carnivores. They can even bite through bones and eat remnants of prey animals that lions or cheetahs can’t use. Spotted hyenas usually live in a family group with a fema- le leader. Usually three to four animals live together. But sometimes the group can include up to fifteen hyenas. 26

In which type of habitat do spotted hyenas like to live? Spotted hyenas exist in most areas in Botswana. In the Kalahari, they can be found along with the brown hyenas. In areas with few predators, the spotted hyenas have large territories that they regularly search for food. They usually do this during the cooler times of the day, in the early mornings or evenings, and most often at night. Spotted hyenas are very social animals. They use bur- rows created by animals such as aardvarks to give birth to their one to three babies and raise them there. At first the pups are nursed. Later the parents regurgitate food for the young animals to eat. Sometimes several females even share a burrow. What do hyenas eat? Hyenas are carrion feeders. They often take the rem- nants of kills by lions and cheetahs. Even more frequently they eat dead animals that they find on their extensive forays. Sometimes they also kill smaller animals such as turtles. Occasionally the hyenas also go hunting, pursuing large animals such as wildebeests and even giraffes. When do hyenas hunt? Hyenas hunt only when there is a severe lack of food. Since hyenas can only run slowly and don’t have good hunting techniques, they usually chase their prey across 27

large distances in a group. Once the prey animal gets tired, the hyenas simply start to eat. Why are hyenas so important? Hyenas are enormously important for nature. Hyenas have very refined senses and can smell carrion across a great distance. By completely eating the decomposing flesh, they - along with vultures and jackals - prevent possible germs from harming humans and other animals. That is why hyenas are also nature’s “health police”. What are the threats to hyenas? Hyenas require cohabitation in nature with other pre- dators, whose remnants they can partially live on. Since hyenas eat carrion, they are particularly at risk e.g. if they come across toxic bait. This causes many hyenas to die, preventing them from fulfilling their important role in nature. What do you do if you see a hyena? Hyenas are generally very timid towards humans and flee as soon as they see you. If you see a hyena and feel unsafe, just clap your hands and call out loudly. Then the hyena will feel so disturbed that it will run away quickly. Hyenas can get dangerous only when they are fed and become accustomed to humans. In that case they keep wanting to get more food from humans and get much too close. They can really hurt someone with their sharp 28

teeth. In such highly unlikely cases, it’s better to seek shelter on a tree. It doesn’t have to be tall, since hyenas are unable to climb. SPOTTED HYENA QUIZ! We hope you have understood everything and now know how important hyenas are? So are you ready for another quiz? „Yes!“ Then now it’s time to try the hyena quiz! Good luck! 1. Can you describe what a hyena looks like? 2. In which type of habitats do hyenas like to live? 3. Where do hyenas give birth to their puppies? 4. Why are hyenas so important to us? 5. Can you explain what the threats to hyenas are? 6. And finally, what should you do if you see a hyena? (Answers on end of the book) 29

What is a Brown Hyena? Hyaena brunnea Brown hyenas are also carrion feeders. They rarely hunt on their own and if they do, they only go after small animals. Brown hyenas are smaller and much lighter than spotted hyenas. They have long, dark brown fur. The fur on the tail is especially long. Only the neck and shoulders are much lighter. If you look closely, you can often see dark stripes on the legs. Brown hyenas also have the typical short hind legs, which make their backs seem like they’re sloped downward. In which type of habitat do brown hyenas like to live? Brown hyenas live in the dry, often desert-like parts of the Kalahari. The population in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is at an especially good level. What do hyenas eat? Brown hyenas are predominantly carrion feeders. But they also eat and hunt small mammals, along with in- sects and fruit. How do brown hyenas live? Brown hyenas are solitary animals. They’re usually only active at night. Sometimes several brown hyenas will share one territory. Then they are close relatives who also help raise the young. 30

Between August and January, the hyena mother will give birth to two or three babies. It takes two weeks until the eyes of a newborn open. What do you do if you see a hyena? Brown hyenas tend to be even more timid than the spotted hyenas. This is also because they’re smaller and not as defensive. As a rule, the brown hyena will run away when it sees you. But brown hyenas can also become dangerous when they have become accustomed to humans through feeding. Then don’t forget to keep your distance and retreat onto a tree if necessary, since hyenas are unable to climb. BROWN HYENA QUIZ! We hope that you like the very important and beautiful brown hyena. And to help you keep thinking about it, here is another little quiz. 1. Can you describe what a brown hyena looks like? 2. In which type of habitat do brown hyenas like to live? 3. Why are hyenas so important to us? (Answers at the end of the book) 31

What is a BUFFALO? Syncerus caffer Buffalo are related to cows and indeed look very much like normal cows but they are different because they are „always darkbrown or black“ and are usually „much fatter and larger than normal cows.“ Buffalo also nearly always have a large pair of black horns on their heads. In which habitat do buffalo like to live? Buffalo like to live in wooded bushed grasslands, open savannahs and forests and because buffalo are so big and strong they cannot be kept by people like normal cows. Buffalo also need to drink every day and so can usually be found close to rivers and lakes. Do buffalo like to live together? Yes, they do and a group of buffalo living together is called a herd. Sometimes up to 500 buffalo will live together in the same herd. This is good for the buffalo because together they are strong and can help protect each other. Also with so many animals living together it’s easier for them to find food and water. Sometimes though you may see only 1 or 2 buffalo, these are likely to be older males (called bulls) that are very often bad tempered and like to live on their own. What do buffalo eat? Buffalo are herbivores. Herbivores are animals that only 32

eat plants and buffalo like to eat grass, herbs and leaves. They like to graze in the cooler hours of the morning and through the night but during the hottest part of the day they prefer to rest under trees and bushes. Why do buffalo like mud so much? Believe it or not a dirty buffalo is a happy buffalo. They really enjoy rolling around in dirty muddy pools. It’s not only great fun for them but being covered in thick mud actually helps to protect their skin from the heat of the sun and insect bites. How are buffalo helpful to other animals? Buffalo are important to some birds because they in- directly assist them in finding food. Very often you will see birds such as egrets and oxpeckers close to or even standing on the buffalo. This is because the egrets feed Buffalo 33

on the insects that are disturbed when the buffalo move and the oxpeckers feed on insects such as ticks that live on the buffalo’s skin, in its ears and even up its nose! Also when buffalo graze on grass they help to keep it short, this is good because there are some smaller animals that only like to eat short grass. A large herd of buffalo will also often be the first to spot dangers such as lions and their behaviour and alarm noises will help to warn other animals of the dangers too. What are the threats to buffalo? Their only natural enemies are lions and occasionally crocodiles and hyenas that will eat them however one of the greatest threats to buffalo is disease that they can catch from domestic animals. In large herds disease spreads quickly and many animals can die. Some buffalo herds also have problems finding enough food and water because of competition from domestic animals that may be living in the same area. What do I do if I see a buffalo? If you do see a buffalo stay calm, observe what the animal is doing and don’t scream or shout as this may bring attention to yourself and may even frighten it into attacking you. Usually if a buffalo sees you it will snort a warning this is to warn other buffalo that you are there and to let „you“ know that it has seen „you“. At this point you should try to immediately slowly walk away from it so that it can see that you mean it no harm. If you are chased by a buffalo climbing a tree or hiding 34

3. What do we call a group of buffalo and why is it good for so many buffalo to live together? 4. What do buffalo like to do during the day and why do buffalo really enjoy rolling in muddy water? 5. Can you remember how buffalo are helpful to other birds and animals? 6. Despite being so big and strong can you explain what the threats to buffalo are? 7. Now you understand the buffalo a lot more, what should you do if you see one? (Answers on page 58) What is an ELEPHANT? Loxodonta africana Elephants are truly unmistakable with their long trunks, tusks and huge ears. But did you also know that they are the largest land animals in the whole world? So why do elephants have trunks? The trunk looks very funny but it is very important to the elephant because it is actually its nose that it uses for smelling, grasping, eating and drinking. An elephant can suck up water with its trunk and then drinks it by blowing 36

it out into its mouth. Elephants can even use the tips of their trunks (which they use like fingers) to pick up tiny twigs. The trunk is also very strong and can even be used to push down trees. In which type of habitat do elephants like to live? Elephants live in Africa and Asia and the African ele- phant is larger than the Asian elephant. Elephants like to live where there is lots of water and grass, bushes and trees. Elephants are very sociable and like to live in large fami- ly groups. Females take care of the families because old males like to live alone. Baby elephants are as heavy as a full- grown man when they are born and like human babies young elephants will stay with their mothers for many years or even their whole life. As baby elephants follow their mothers they slowly learn what to eat, where to drink and how to avoid danger but mostly during their young life all they want to do is play. However some- 37 Adult elephant

times their adventures get them into trouble and young elephants might get lost or need to be rescued from a muddy pool or a large hole in the ground. What are tusks? The elephant’s tusks are actually 2 long teeth. The tusks are used for digging and feeling and someti- mes as weapons when fighting other elephants. What do elephants eat? Elephants are herbivores, which means that they like to eat vegetation such as grass, tree bark and fruits. An adult elephant has a huge body and needs to eat for about 18 hours a day. Elephants also need to drink lots of water. Why are elephants so helpful to other animals? Elephants are very useful in helping other animals to survive. When they push down trees they create open spaces that other animals can live and feed in and their dung is excellent food for insects such as beetles, it is also a very good natural fertiliser. Elephants are also very good at finding water this helps many other animals that need to drink too. Did you know that? Elephants can live for 60 years or even more. Because elephants eat so much they use 6 sets of teeth 38

in a lifetime. Elephants can communicate with each other even when they are miles apart by making special sounds that people cannot hear. Elephants have wonderful memories and can always remember whom their family members are, where their home is and where to find food and water. What are the threats to elephants? People are the main threat to elephants. Sadly people kill older elephants for their tusks and usually when this happens young elephants are left orphaned with no fa- mily to protect and care for them and they die too. The tusks are then made into ornamental gifts. Thou- sands of elephants are killed every year and because of this they have become endangered. To kill an elephant is usually not allowed and is called poaching. Baby elephant 39

Warning elephant: „Stay away!“ What do I do if I see an elephant? You need to remember that elephants have a very good sense of smell so if you can see elephants always be careful to check the wind direction or they will know you are there. You now know that elephants live in family groups and some of them are always on the look out for danger so the safest thing to do is always avoid getting too close to any elephants. An elephant that has seen you will warn you to stay away by trumpeting, flapping its ears or rumbling loudly. At this point you should try to move as far away from it as possible. If you do not move away it may charge you and if it does you must then be 40

brave, and stand absolutely still and wait for it to „stop“ running towards you. When it stops and starts to move away from you, you should then also try to move away by walking away quietly. If however it doesn’t stop but continues running towards you then „you must run quickly“ and try to find a safe place to hide such as a tall tree or thick bush. If there is no bush around lie on the ground staying abso- lutely “still and quiet”. Sometimes at night elephants like to visit places where people live to look for food. At night if you see an elephant and are sure you are safe then making lots of loud noises will usually frighten them away. Remember „never“ try to get too close to elephants be- cause they can run faster than a man and can be very dangerous! ELEPHANT QUIZ! Elephants are incredible, aren’t they? Is your memory as good as an elephant’s? Let’s see because it’s now time for the elephant quiz. 1. In which type of habitat do elephants like to live? 2. What do elephants use their trunks and tusks for? 3. What do elephants eat? 4. Why are elephants so helpful to so many other different animals? 41

5. Why are elephants so fascinating? 6. What are the threats to elephants? 7. What should you do if you see an elephant? (Answers on page 59) Young elephant What is a HIPPOPOTAMUS? Hippopotamus amphibius Hippos are huge fat animals with short legs and enor- mous heads. Inside their mouth they have 4 huge long teeth that can often be seen when they yawn and grunt. Hippos are sometimes called river horses because they live in water but they are not at all related to horses. In which type of habitat do hippos like to live? Hippo’s favourite places are lakes and rivers and during the day they stay in the water to protect their sensitive skin from the sun. Hippos can run and swim underwater very well but spend most of the day resting in the water with only their eyes, ears and nostrils showing. 42

Hippos like to live in large family groups called schools and a baby hippo is even born and fed underwater. The young hippos and mothers though must always take care in the water because the bigger male hippos are very often bad tempered and will fight each other for the best place in the water. What do hippos eat? Although they live in water hippos never eat fish. Hippos are herbivores and only like to eat vegetation. Hippos eat the plants that grow in the lake or river and every night they leave the water to feed on grass. Why are hippos useful to other creatures and plants? Hippos usually go to the toilet in the water and when they do they flick their short tails from side to side to spread the droppings. This sounds a funny thing to do but actually the droppings act as a fertiliser or food, which other creatures and plants can feed on. Also when running in the water hippos stir up the mud on the bot- tom of the lake or river and this helps fish to Hippos likes to live in the water 43

find the food that was hidden in the mud. What are the threats to hippos? The main threats to hippos are that the rivers and lakes they live in can dry up and so the places where hippos like to live become smaller or disappear. Their only natural enemies are crocodiles and lions, which may sometimes eat young or sick hippos. How do most accidents between people and hip- pos happen? Most accidents between people and hippos happen when hippos want to come to the surface of the water but actually come up underneath boats or when the hippo is walking around at night. What should you do if you meet a hippo? On land a frightened hippo will always want to run back into the water. At all times avoid getting in between the hippo and the water. If you do see a hippo and are in a safe place making lots of noise and shouting is a good idea to frighten the hippo away. If you are chased by hippo climbing a tree is the best way to escape from it. However, although hippos are big animals they are extremely quick runners and difficult to see or hear espe- cially at night. At all times extreme care should be taken when walking close to any river or lake. Usually the trails hippos leave can easily be seen in the day warning you of their presence. 44

What is a RHINOCEROS? Diceros bicornis A rhinoceros is a very large grey coloured land animal easily recognisable because it has two long forward facing horns on its head. On the upper part of the nose is a small horn and on the end of its nose is a longer horn. The horns are used mainly for fighting and are also a sign of a rhino’s age and strength. In which type of habitat do rhinos like to live? Rhinos live in Africa and Asia and in Africa there are two types or species of rhino, the white rhino and the black rhino. White rhinos like to live in open bushland or on the savannah but the much shyer and more aggressi- ve black rhino usually lives in dense bush thickets or woodland. It’s also fascinating to know that a baby white rhino will always run in front of its mother and a baby black rhino will always run behind its mother! What do rhinos eat? Rhinos are plant-eating herbivores however the white rhino likes to graze on grass and the black rhino brow- ses on bushes and twigs. Rhinos have to eat a lot and search for food most of the day and night although in the heat of the day, they like to rest in the shade under trees and bushes. 46

What are the threats to rhinos? The main threats to rhinos are people who kill rhino for their horns. They are then used to make ornamental gifts and some people even use the horns as a medicine. Because so many rhinos have been killed they are now one of Africa’s most endangered animals and are close to extinction. Extinction means that some animals, birds or plants will never be seen again because they have all gone. How can we help to protect rhinos? We must help to protect rhinos through conservation. Conservation is when we want to protect something and stop it from becoming extinct. In the wild people try to protect and conserve many living things such as birds, animals and plants and it is also very important to protect „the places in which animals and people live too“. What do I do if I see a rhino? A rhino has very poor eyesight but „a fantastic sense of smell“ so always be careful to check the wind direction or it will know you are there. If you do see a rhino always „stand still, do not shout or run“ as this may bring atten- tion to yourself and frighten it into chasing you. A rhino that has seen you will warn you to stay away making a similar sound to a sneeze, (called snorting). At this point you should try to „move as far away“ from it as possible. If you do not move away it may charge you and if it does you must then be brave, and stand perfectly still and wait 48

for it to stop running towards you. When it stops and starts to move away from you, you should then also try to move away by „walking away quietly.“ If however it does not stop but continues running towards you then „you must run quickly“ and try to find a safe place to hide such as a tall tree or thick bush. Remember, a rhino’s eyesight is very bad so if you keep still or hide behind a tree or bush it will probably be unable to see you and move away. RHINOCEROS QUIZ! Rhinos are great animals, don’t you think? Ready for another little quiz? You’re getting very good at them now. So, let’s see what you can remember about rhinos! 1. Can you remember what a rhinoceros looks like and name the two types of rhino that live in Africa? 2. In which type of habitat do black and white rhinos like to live? 3. Why are rhinos so important and useful animals? 4. What are the threats to rhinos and what does extinction mean? 5. How can we all help to protect rhinos? 6. What should you do if you see a rhino? (Answers on page 60) 49

What is a WILD DOG? Lycaon pictus Wild Dogs are medium sized long legged dogs that have mixed brown, white and black fur. Wild dogs can look similar to hyenas in terms of size and pattern of their fur but usually wild dogs are smaller and thinner than hyenas and don’t have such a large head. Wild dogs also have a distinct „dog-face“ which is usually long and thin whilst the hyena’s face is more rounded. In which type of habitat do wild dogs like to live? Although wild dogs are related to the dogs we like to keep in our homes and on our farms, wild dogs cannot be kept as pets. They like to live completely wild and free in bushed woodland and open savannahs. They live in dens that are holes in the ground (usually old warthog burrows), or they like to dig their own dens that they will increase in size to suit the size of their family. Like normal dogs wild dogs have many pups that need their mothers to care for them and protect them. When the pups are first born they stay hidden safely in the dens; it’s only when they are 3 - 4 weeks old that they venture outside to play in the sunshine. Do wild dogs always live together? Yes, they live in their own family groups called packs and form territories. A pack may contain just 2 dogs or up 50

to 30 led by an experienced male and female although nowadays large packs are becoming very rare. Living together helps them to protect each other better and help each other to find their food more easily. Some wild dog behaviour is very similar to normal dogs beha- viour. When the different members of the family meet up again after being separated they are so happy to see each other that they get really excited and kiss and lick each other’s faces. What do wild dogs eat? Wild dogs are carnivores and so eat meat. They like to hunt during the early morning and evening hours in their packs and catch warthogs, gazelles and sometimes even large animals, 51 Wild dog

such as wildebeest and zebra. They are very good runners and when out hunting travel great distances, sometimes up to 30 kilometres in a day. Why are wild dogs so important? Along with other predators wild dogs help to control the numbers of other animal populations by hunting the weak, sick and old animals. Through hunting and scavenging the wild dogs help to keep the land free of sick and dying animals and help to stop the spread of sickness and disease. What are the threats to wild dogs? Wild dogs used to live in most African countries but now they only exist in 15 including Zambia. Sadly there are only about 4000 - 5000 wild dogs left in the wild. Their natural enemies include lions and hyenas that will often try to kill them. Because wild dogs travel great di- stances they often come into contact with humans. When this happens some farmers with domestic animals see the wild dogs as threats and so kill them. The wild dogs can also catch diseases such as rabies from domestic dogs, which can kill entire packs of wild dogs. What should you do if you see a pack of wild dogs? If you see a pack of wild dogs „don’t panic“ or „bring attention to yourself“. Stay still and quiet because wild dogs are not usually a danger to people. However if you start to run and shout the dogs may get excited and come 52

towards you to see what is going on. So „stay calm“ try to move away from them or find a tree to hide in and wait quietly and patiently for them to move away. Remember wild dogs will not normally harm people and are only a danger, if they have pups, are injured or feel threatened. WILD DOG QUIZ! Now we hope you have learnt that although wild dogs look similar to our pet dogs they are somehow very different too. Have you remembered enough to answer all the questi- ons? We hope so, good luck! 1. Can you describe what a wild dog looks like? 2. Can you describe the differences between a wild dog and a hyena? 3. In which type of habitat will you find wild dogs living and what is a family of wild dogs called? 4. Can you remember why wild dogs are so important animals? 5. Can you explain what the threats to wild dogs are? 6. What should you do if you see a pack of wild dogs? (Answers on page 61) 53

What is a CROCODILE? Crocodylus crocodilae You probably know that a crocodile is a very large reptile that has a huge long tail, a long snout like mouth full of pointed teeth and 4 short legs. But did you know its feet are also webbed like those of a duck to help it swim? Reptiles are cold-blooded animals that need their bodies to be warm before they become active so crocodiles like to lie in the sun to get warm. Crocodiles are very special animals because they have been living on the earth for millions of years, much longer than any of the other animals we have mentioned in this book. In which type of habitat do crocodiles like to live? Crocodiles live in water; lakes, rivers and swamps. They are excellent swimmers and use their very strong tails and webbed feet to move forward in the water. However despite looking frightening crocodiles can also be very gentle. Did you know that crocodiles actually build nests and lay eggs? Crocodiles also guard their nests for weeks until their eggs hatch and then when they have they carry the baby crocodiles down to the water in their mouths without harming them. But from the moment the baby cro- codiles touch the water they are then on their own. They can swim very well but need to be very brave and clever because the water is 54

always full of dangers, particularly other animals that like to eat baby crocodiles. What do crocodiles eat? Small crocodiles eat worms, beetles, small fish and crabs. Adult crocodiles eat fish, water birds and medi- um sized land animals, such as zebra and wildebeest. Crocodiles are extremely difficult to see in the water; sometimes they look like a piece of floating wood. This makes it easy for them to get very close to their prey and whilst the unsuspecting animal is drinking or swim- ming the crocodile will strike and drag its catch under the water. Why are crocodiles so useful in the rivers and lakes? Crocodiles will eat live and dead animals. They are par- ticularly useful in rivers and lakes because by eating the dead animals that fall into the water they help to keep the water clean and stop disease spreading. Crocodile 55

Predators such as crocodiles also help to control the populations of other species by eating them. This then helps to keep a healthy natural balance of wildlife that in the end ensures that most of the animals can survive for longer together. What are the threats to crocodiles? Although young crocodiles may be eaten by other ani- mals healthy full-grown adult crocodiles have no real natural enemies. A main threat to them is the drying up of the rivers and lakes in which they live (this can be caused naturally or unnaturally by droughts and humans) and means that the places (habitats) where crocodiles like to live are becoming smaller or even disappearing. The animals crocodiles feed upon are also decreasing in number and so the crocodiles find it harder to catch enough food to survive. A few people also like to hunt and kill crocodiles for their skins that they use to make clothes, shoes and bags with. What should you do if you see a crocodile? If a crocodile sees you coming it will usually leap into the water for safety. If you see a crocodile coming towards you always stay on land never go into the water. If it does chase you quickly run away from the direction of the water and climb a tree. 56

Remember crocodiles lie very still and have excellent camouflage that makes them very difficult to see and when they need to they can move, run and swim very fast. At all times extreme care should be taken when walking close to any river, lake or swamp. If you are not sure if there are crocodiles in the water then it is better to keep your distance from it. CROCODILE QUIZ! Did you enjoy learning about the amazing crocodile? Yes! Then it’s time to begin the crocodile quiz. 1. Can you describe what a crocodile looks like? 2. In which type of habitat do crocodiles like to live? 3. What do crocodiles eat? 4. Why are crocodiles so useful in the rivers and la- kes? 5. What are the threats to crocodiles? 6. What should you do if you see a crocodile? (Answers on page 62) 57

What is a SNAKE? A snake is a long thin reptile with no arms or legs. Snakes have scales instead of fur and are cold-blooded requi- ring their bodies to be warm before they become active. Snakes can be very short or very long; some snakes can even grow up to 5 times longer than a man. They also usually have skin colours that make them very difficult to see. In which type of habitat do snakes like to live? Snakes can live almost anywhere on the ground, in trees, bushes, deserts and swamps. Snakes are usually very shy and many like to live and hide in holes such as animal burrows to escape the heat of the day. Did you know, that some snakes lay as many as 75 eggs, which take 2 - 3 months to hatch? What do snakes eat? Small snakes eat worms, insects, mice and frogs. Larger snakes can eat larger prey including small birds and animals, such as hares and squirrels. Snakes can stay still for a very long time and then ambush their prey. Some snakes have a poisonous bite that kills their prey before they eat it. The poison is called venom but most snakes have no poison or venom. 58

Why are snakes so useful and important to the environment? Predators like snakes help to control the populations of wild frogs and insects. Snakes can also assist farmers by helping to control the numbers of some pest ani- mals such as rats and mice that eat crops and spread diseases. What are the threats to snakes? Most snakes, especially when small, face the natural danger of being eaten by birds of prey and animals such as cats. When the land is burnt a lot of snakes are unable to escape the fire and die. The places where snakes like to live are also changing forcing them to move away in search of food. Some people kill snakes because they like to use sna- kes skins to make clothes, shoes and bags and some people kill snakes because they are simply frightened of them. What do you do if you see a snake? If you do see a snake it will usually try to hide away from you. The best thing to do if you see a snake is to stay calm and slowly move away from it. A snake can move very fast but it will usually only bite those people who deliberately try to catch, harm or threaten it. 59

Could a snake bite you? It is actually very unlikely that you will ever be bitten by a snake but at all times extreme care should be taken when walking in the bush, farming in the fields or collec- ting wood or grass. Great care must also be taken when sleeping on the floor. Try to avoid putting your hands into holes in trees or holes on the ground. If a snake does bite you, try to stay calm and get some- body to help you. If possible try to remember how the snake looked as this will help the doctor to find the right medicine. SNAKE QUIZ! Well done, you have reached the final quiz and we hope that you had a lot of fun reading the book and fast beco- ming a real animal expert. We also hope that you’re now not too frightened of slinky, scaly snakes. Please enjoy our final quiz the snake quiz and remember: you can always read the sections again if you cannot remember something! 1. Can you describe what a snake looks like and why are they so difficult to see? 2. In which type of habitat do snakes like to live? 3. What do snakes like to eat? 60

4. Can you explain why snakes are so useful and impor- tant to the environment? 5. What are the threats to snakes? 6. What should you do if you see a snake? 7. When and how is someone most likely to be bitten by a snake and what would you do, if one bit you? (Answers on page 63) GENERAL BEHAVIOUR GUIDE SHOULD YOU COME ACROSS AN ANIMAL: If you see a wild animal „don’t panic, try to stay calm and quiet“ Never try to get too close to wild animals, always keep a safe distance or avoid them completely Always observe what animals are going to do next It’s good to check the wind direction to ensure that the animals cannot smell you Usually animals will warn you to stay away by trum- peting, hissing, snorting, growling or snarling Never try to harm or frighten an animal unnecessarily 61

Most animals only want to defend themselves or their young Stay away from sick or injured animals After a short „warning“ charge animals like rhino and ele- phant will usually stop, so try to be brave and stand still „After“ the warning charge try to move away slowly and find safety by climbing a tree or hiding in thick bush If a hippo or buffalo charges you, you must „imme- diately“ find a safe place such as a tree or bush to hide in Never run or turn your back on a charging cheetah, leopard or lion they have a natural instinct to chase moving objects so at first always stand still and then try to move away slowly When you are in a safe place making noises (shouting and hand clapping) will help to frighten wild animals away Angry male lion 62

QUIZ ANSWERS ANSWERS TO THE CHEETAH QUIZ! Question 1: * Yellow coloured fur with dark spots or streaks on it * Small heads with yellow/brown eyes and 2 black stripes running down their faces called tear marks * Long legs and claws and a thin sleek body Question 2: * Long legs * Light body * Flexible backbone * Long claws Question 3: * Cheetahs: mainly active during the day, like to live in large open grassland savannahs * Leopards: mostly active at night, like to live close to wooded bushland, forests and water * Cheetahs: small heads with yellow/brown eyes and 2 black stripes running down the face (called tear marks) * Leopards: large heads, green eyes, no tear marks * Cheetahs: longer and thinner than leopards * Cheetahs rarely climb trees * Leopards climb, rest and sometimes eat in trees Question 4: * Large open grasslands called savannahs * A habitat is a „place or type of surrounding“ in which an animal likes to live Question 5: * Places or habitats that cheetahs like to live in are changing * People sometimes kill cheetahs * Lions kill cheetahs Question 6: * If there were not enough wild cheetahs in Africa they would find it extremely difficult to survive naturally and would eventually disappear from Africa altogether * It would be a great loss to people as well as to other animals if we could no longer see cheetahs * Cheetahs are part of a natural system that helps all these animals live happily together 63

Question 7: * If you see a cheetah resting, stay away from it * Do not run or shout or bring attention to yourself * If a cheetah snarls or hisses at you, stay away from it * Stand still, stay calm and quiet, let it move away * Then you can try to walk away yourself, find a safe place to hide in, such as a tree or thick bush * However, if the cheetah starts to move towards you try first to „quickly find a tree to climb“, if there are no trees then „stand still“ and „clap your hands“ together shouting loudly at the same time * If this fails try to lie on the ground, perfectly still and quiet until it goes away ANSWERS TO THE LEOPARD QUIZ! Question 1: * Yellow coloured fur with dark rosette patterns on it * Some leopards are black * Thick necks * Large head with green eyes * Very strong and powerful animals Question 2: * Found in many different habitats but like to live in wooded bushland and forests Question 3: * No, they live alone and usually in their own territories * A territory is an area of land where usually only a few related animals or just one individual animal of a particular species lives and hunts * Territories are marked with scent or urine to warn other animals Question 4: * Leopards capture the spirit of Africa and people always become excited when they see one * Leopards help to control the number of other wild animals living in a certain area Question 5: * Leopards habitats and homes are disappearing because forests and bushes are being chopped down * Farmers sometimes kill leopards * Leopards are hunted and killed for their fur Question 6: * If you see a leopard, stay away from it 64

* Do not run or shout or bring attention to yourself * If the leopard is hissing or snarling at you „stay away“ from it * Stand still, stay calm and quiet and let it move away * When it starts to walk away you can then try to walk away and find a safe place to hide in, such as a tree or thick bush * However, if the leopard starts to move towards you try first to „quickly find a tree to climb“ if there are no trees then „stand still“ and „clap your hands together“ shouting loudly at the same time * If this fails try to lie on the ground, perfectly still and quiet until it goes away ANSWERS TO THE LION QUIZ! Question 1: * Very large cats with huge feet and claws and massive sharp teeth Question 2: * Only male lions have a mane Question 3: * Lions like to live on open grasslands, in bushland or even in rocky places * A family group of lion is called a pride Question 4: * Lions are the symbol of Africa and of exciting, unexplored wild places * Lions help to maintain the healthy natural balance of Africa’s magnificent wildlife Question 5: * Lions are often killed by people who need to protect themselves and their domestic animals * Lions can catch diseases from domestic dogs Question 6: * If you see a lion, stay away from it * Do not run or shout or bring attention to yourself * If the lion is growling or snarling at you just be friendly and walk away from it * Do not run, stay calm and quiet and just walk backwards slowly * If it does charge you stand perfectly still, stay calm and quiet, be brave and do not run * If it stops, let it walk away and then try to walk away yourself * Do not crawl on the ground * If it does continue to come towards you, quickly climb a tree if there are no trees then „stand still“ and „clap your hands“ and shout loudly to try to frighten it away * If this fails try to lie on the ground perfectly still and quiet until it goes away 65

ANSWERS TO THE SPOTTED HYENA QUIZ! Question 1: * Light brown to medium brown fur with spots. * The hind legs are much shorter than the front legs. * The sharpest teeth of all carnivores. * They can’t run very fast. * They have a large head with round ears. Question 2: * In many areas of Botswana, from the moist Okavango Delta to the dry Kalahari. * Hyenas prefer areas with many predators that can provide them with carrion. Question 3: * Hyenas often use the burrows dug by aardvarks. * Hyenas give birth to their babies inside burrows. * Hyenas often share a burrow. Question 4: * Hyenas are carrion feeders that dispose of dead animals. * By consuming decomposing animals, they kill germs that might be harmful to humans and animals. * Hyenas are also called nature’s “health police”. Question 5: * Hyenas are threatened because they don’t have enough areas where they can live together with predators. * Toxic bait that has been put out. Question 6: * Hyenas are generally very shy towards humans. * If you clap your hands and call out loudly, the hyena will run away. * Hyenas that were fed by humans and have become accustomed to them might get dangerous due to their sharp teeth. * If a hyena seems to be dangerous, it’s best to climb up a tree. It doesn’t have to be very tall, since hyenas can’t climb anything. ANSWERS TO THE BROWN HYENA QUIZ! Question 1: * Dark brown, long fur. * Light neck and shoulders. 66

* Shorter hind legs. * Usually have dark stripes on the legs. Question 2: * In dry, often desert-like areas of the Kalahari. * Many brown hyenas live in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Question 3: * Hyenas are carrion feeders that dispose of dead animals. * By consuming decomposing animals, they kill germs that might be harmful to humans and animals. * Hyenas are also called nature’s “health police”. ANSWERS TO THE BUFFALO QUIZ! Question 1: * Buffalo are related to cows, they look very much like cows * They are always dark brown or black, much fatter and larger than domestic cows * They have a large pair of dark horns on their head Question 2: * Buffalo like to live in wooded bushed grasslands, open savannahs and forests * They live close to rivers and lakes Question 3: * A group of buffalo living together is called a herd * It’s good to live together because together they are strong and can help protect each other * Also with many animals living together it’s easier for them to find food and water Question 4: * When it’s very hot during the day they prefer to rest under trees and bushes * They really enjoy rolling around in dirty muddy pools because it’s great fun for them * When covered in thick mud it actually helps to protect their skin from the heat of the sun and insect bites Question 5: * Buffalo are important to some birds because they indirectly assist them in finding food * When buffalo graze on grass they help to keep it short, this is good because there are some smaller animals that only like to eat short grass * Large herds spot dangers such as lions first and their alarm warns other animals, too 67

Question 6: * Their only natural enemies are lions and occasionally crocodiles and hyenas that will eat them * One of the greatest threats to buffalo is disease * Some buffalo herds have problems in finding enough food and water because of competition from domestic animals that may be living in the same area Question 7: * If you see a buffalo stay calm and observe what the animal is doing * Do not scream or shout or bring attention to yourself * When buffalo „snort“ a warning immediately slowly walk away from it * If chased climb a tree or hide in thick bush * Always try to avoid buffalo and the places they like to stay in ANSWERS TO THE ELEPHANT QUIZ! Question 1: * Elephants like to live where there’s lots of water and grass, bushes and trees Question 2: * Elephants use their trunks for smelling, grasping, eating, feeling, drinking and pushing down trees * They use their tusks for digging, feeling and sometimes as weapons when fighting Question 3: * Elephants like to eat vegetation, such as grass, tree bark and fruits Question 4: * Elephants help other animals to survive * When they push down trees they create open spaces that other animals can live and feed in * Their dung is excellent food for insects such as beetles, it’s also a very good natural fertiliser * They are very good at finding water, this helps many other animals that need to drink, too Question 5: * Elephants can live for 60 years or even more * Because they eat so much they use 6 sets of teeth in a lifetime * Elephants can communicate with each other even when they are miles apart by making special sounds that people can not hear * Elephants have amazing memories and can always remember whom their family members are, where their home is and where to find food and water 68

Question 6: * The main threats to elephants are people because they kill older elephants for their tusks Question 7: * Check wind direction, they can smell you very well * Avoid getting too close to elephants * Elephants will warn you to stay away by trumpeting, flapping their ears and rumbling loudly * Immediately move away slowly * When an elephant charges be brave do not run, stand still * Wait for it to stop and let it move away * When it stops then you can move away quietly * If the elephant does not stop you must quickly run and try to find a safe place to hide such as a tall tree or thick bush * If there is no bush around lie on the ground staying absolutely still and quiet * At night if you see an elephant and are in a safe place making lots of noise usually frightens elephants away ANSWERS TO THE HIPPOPOTAMUS QUIZ! Question 1: * Their favourite places are lakes and rivers Question 2: * Hippos spend most of their day resting in the water with only their eyes, ears and nostrils showing Question 3: * Hippo’s droppings act as a fertiliser or food, which other creatures and plants can feed on * They stir up the mud on the bottom of the lake or river and this helps fish to find the food that was hidden in the mud Question 4: * The rivers and lakes that they live in can dry up and so the places where hippos like to live become smaller or disappear * Their only natural enemies are crocodiles and lions, which may sometimes eat young or sick hippos Question 5: * Most accidents happen when hippos come to the surface underneath boats or when the hippo is walking around at night * On land a frightened hippo will always want to run back into the water 69

Question 6: * Always avoid getting in between the hippo and the water * If you are in a safe place making lots of noise and shouting is also a good idea to frighten the hippo away * If ypu are chased by hippo climbing on a tree is the best way to escape from it. ANSWERS TO THE RHINOCEROS QUIZ! Question 1: * Very large grey coloured land animals that have two long forward facing horns on their heads * There are two types or species or rhino in Africa, the white and the black rhino Question 2: * White rhinos like to live in open bushland or on the savannah * Black rhinos usually live in dense bush thickets or woodland Question 3: * Rhinos are very important because they have been on the earth for millions of years and their presence helps to make Africa the magnificent exciting place it is * They are also very useful animals because their huge bodies create pathways through the bush that can then also be used by other animals and even people * They also produce large piles of dung that is easily absorbed back into the ground as fertiliser which helps new plants grow Question 4: * Main threats are people who kill rhinos for their horns * Extinction means that some animals, birds or plants will never be seen again because they have all gone from the world Question 5: * We can help to protect rhinos through conservation. Conservation is when we want to protect something and stop it from becoming extinct Question 6: * Check wind direction, they have a fantastic sense of smell * If you see a rhino always stand still, do not shout or run or bring attention to yourself * Rhinos will warn you to stay away by snorting * Immediately slowly move away from it as far as possible * When a rhino charges for the first time be brave do not run, stand still * Wait for it to stop and then you can start to move away yourself quietly * If the rhino does not stop you must run quickly and try to find a safe place to hide such as a tall tree or thick bush 70

ANSWERS TO THE WILD DOGS QUIZ! Question 1: * Medium sized long legged dogs that have mixed brown, white and black fur Question 2: * Wild dogs can look similar to hyenas in terms of size and pattern of their fur but usually wild dogs are smaller and thinner than hyenas and don’t have such a large head * Wild dogs also have a distinct „dog-face“ which is usually long and thin whilst the hyena’s face is more rounded Question 3: * Wild dogs like to live completely wild and free in bushed woodland and open savannahs. They live in dens that are holes in the ground (usually old warthog burrows) * A family of wild dogs is called a pack Question 4: * Along with other predators wild dogs help to control the numbers of other animal populations by hunting the weak, sick and old animals * Through hunting and scavenging the wild dogs help to keep the land free of sick and dying animals and help to stop the spread of sickness and disease Question 5: * Their natural enemies include lions and hyenas that will often try to kill them * Because wild dogs travel great distances they often come into contact with humans. When this happens some farmers with domestic animals see the wild dogs as threats and so kill them * Wild dogs can also catch diseases such as rabies from domestic dogs, which can kill entire packs of wild dogs Question 6: * Do not panic, do not bring attention to yourself * Always stay still and quiet * Do not run or shout because the dogs get excited then * Stay calm and try to move away from them slowly * Hide in a tree, wait quietly and patiently for them to move away 71

ANSWERS TO THE CROCODILE QUIZ! Question 1: * Very large lizard shaped reptile * It has a huge long tail * A long snout like mouth full of pointed teeth * 4 short legs with webbed feet Question 2: * Crocodiles live in water such as lakes, rives and swamps Question 3: * Small crocodiles eat worms, beetles, small fish and crabs * Adult crocodiles eat fish, water birds and medium sized land animals such as zebra and wildebeest Question 4: * Crocodiles are particularly useful in rivers and lakes because by eating the dead animals that fall into the water they help to keep the water clean and stop disease spreading * Crocodiles also help to control the populations of other species by eating them. This then helps to keep a healthy natural balance of wildlife that in the end ensures that most of the animals can survive for longer together Question 5: * The drying up of the rivers and lakes in which they live (this can be caused naturally or unnaturally by droughts and humans) and means that the places (habitats) where crocodiles like to live are becoming smaller or even disappearing * The animals crocodiles feed upon are also decreasing in number and so the crocodiles find it harder to catch enough food to survive * Crocodiles are also hunted and killed for their skins. The skin is used to make clothes, shoes and bags Question 6: * If you see a crocodile coming towards you always stay on land * Never go into the water * If it chases you quickly run away from the direction of the water * Climb a tree and wait until it moves away from you * Keep your distance from any water if you are not sure if there are crocodiles in the water ANSWERS TO THE SNAKE QUIZ! Question 1: * A long thin reptile with no arms or legs 72

* Snakes have scales instead of fur * Snakes can be very short or very long * Usually they have skin colours that make them very difficult to see Question 2: * Snakes can live almost anywhere on the ground, in trees, deserts and swamps * Snakes like to live and hide in holes such as animal burrows Question 3: * Small snakes eat worms, insects, mice and frogs * Larger snakes can eat larger prey including small birds and animals such as hares and squirrels Question 4: * Snakes help to control the populations of wild frogs and insects * Snakes can also assist farmers by helping to control the number of some pest animals such as rats and mice that eat crops and spread some diseases Question 5: * Most snakes especially when small face the natural danger of being eaten by birds of prey and animals such as cats * When the land is burnt a lot of snakes are unable to escape the fire and die * The places where snakes like to live are also changing forcing them to move away in search of food * Snakes are killed because their skin is used to make clothes, shoes and bags. Some people kill snakes because they are simply frightened of them Question 6: * The best thing to do is to stay calm, do not scream or shout * Do not try to harm it, don’t make it aggressive * Slowly move away from it * If out of sight you can then start to run Question 7: * When walking in the bush * Farming in the fields * Collecting wood or grass * Sleeping on the floor * Avoid to put your hands into holes in trees or holes on the ground If a snake does bite you, you must: * Stay calm * Get help immediately * Try to remember what the snake looked like 73