Africa - Through the Eyes of Carlos Lopes

Africa

Through the Eyes of Carlos Lopes

Life in the Bush...

Sometimes a Harsh Reality

Wildlife photography is most rewarding as it complements both of my passions, and although here I've only shared mainly 'portrait images', which conforms with the original idea for the page, and allows for a more educational captioning, I must emphasize that it is about much more. There is a side to 'life in the bush' which reads like a chronicle of blood. There are visuals which photographers are witness to and capture on film, that depict unbelievable brutality, yet, it all makes sense, for it is the foundation in which the great balance survives. I take many of these images, and always learn something new while doing it. Here I share some photos of that 'side' of the bush.

Lions at Buffalo Kill

The three nomadic males were not ready to take on the ruling brothers of the Sweni area pride, but they were masters of the hunt, and often brought down the mighty 'Yniati'. He was left no chance of surviving, when the herd scattered and left him alone. He fought back bravely... and died an honorable death.

Black Backed Jackals at Kill

Always on the alert... You never know, they might return to claim even this piece of leftover leather. This time it would be easier though; the hyaenas were very far away and the foal was small... The vultures can wait their turn.

Lioness Feeding on Hippo

The problem for the 'Ngonyama' was to take the carcass out of the water. For two days the sisters tried it. All along, the baby hippo stayed by it's dead mother, lost in a wave of terror. I wished the sisters knew about compassion, instead, my heart again cried... makes you a better person, you know, I remember the words.

Hyaenas At a Kill

All along, I was thinking, 'they look like painted circus clowns.' If anyone were to see this now, they would probably think the lions did it too. Everything gets blamed on the lions. Well, I saw it and the 'beest' had no chance - they were in a frenzy... and they bite and don't let go! I hope it's true when they say they die of shock.