Wildlife behind the scenes, SOUTH AFRICA
Airing Date: Apr 24th, 2006
The great thing about safaris and being out in the wild in Africa, is that there are so many opportunities to get up close and personal with a lot of the wildlife....that is.....not too close!
Specialist guides at De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Centre (who are wildlife veterinarians and registered tourist guides) take you behind the scenes to interact with researchers, ecologists, vets and guides while discovering the fantastic world of wildlife in Southern Africa. You will be able to come face to face with the magnificent cheetah, the African Wild Dog, the African Elephant, Vultures, and much more.
Whilst on safari the focus will be to provide you with a behind the scenes look into the problems facing some of Africa's greatest species such as finding homes for the magnificent Cheetahs ands saving them from extinction. They're at their best going from 0-100Km/h in just 3 secs!! When working with the resident vets there are a number of different operations / activities that you...yes YOU... may be involved with dependent on what minor operations they need to perform on the day.
It could be carrying a cheetah into the vet clinic, weighing, taking a stomach scope, blood tests, taking feather samples from Vultures, or micro-chipping wild dogs. The Vulture work involves fitting birds with radio tracking devices for when they are released into the wild so that they can be monitored.
There is an ambassador cheetah at the property that people can touch and the Elephant Sanctuary visit is a fairly hands on experience. The operators will discuss conservation of the animals and you will also be able to walk the elephants by holding their trunk in your hand.....something you'll probably only ever get to do once!
Further Information
South African Airways from $2405 ex west coast and $2650 ex east coast. Prices available online and include surcharges, fees & taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
South African Airways
Telephone: 02 9286 8960
Website: www.flysaa.com
8 day Wildlife Behind the Scenes tour from $5275 a person twin share. Includes accommodation, park fees & most meals.
Peregrine Adventures
Telephone: 1300 854 500
Website: www.peregrineadventures.com
Prices correct at 24/4/06
