November, 4th
We burnt one enclosure today (the one reserved for the 11-Pack in order to clean their current enclosure) in order to make space (a lot of dead trees and shrubs) and to kill all the ticks in it. The wolves are very sensitive when it comes to the local ticks. The ticks here don’t carry the FSME virus but something that the locals call “Tick-Fever”. The wolves die of tick fever because they stop drinking and eating.
Hungry, Hungry Cubs
November, 5th
I almost vomited today. I bet none of you has ever pulled a dead calf out of a dead cow.
November, 6th
I went to PE (Port Elizabeth, about 200 km away) today to extend or better renew my visa at the Apartment of Home Affairs. Unfortunately we didn’t bring the stamp of the Wolf Sanctuary, so we have to return there soon. At least they gave me the form. Going to PE was actually a nice change. Went shopping (bought a new camping chair and a ridiculous green shirt), saw other people, and got to see some of the very cities and bays along the way. When I came back I had to prepare the meat for my cubs. The two bowls I use were outside so I went to fetch them and I saw a bit of meat in one of the bowls. It looked like liver so I turned it around to see if it was still good. (It was dark and I had the head-lamp on my head) I looked at the piece of liver and saw that it had legs. The next second that bug (or scorpion or whatever) moved so quickly. It gave me such a freakin’ fright. I sometimes forget that I am in the middle of nowhere.
November, 12 th
A lot has happened the last few days. I’ll just give you the hard facts: Lost a cub to the tick fever. So I am down to 7. I named them all now. Portrait pictures follow. Had nice braais and I am getting to know the people on the farm. I try to sleep every second I can. I still have to feed the cubs every few hours, although I try to give them bones now, so they have something to chew and play with. Weather got bad. It’s raining constantly. Bought gum boots and a rain suit. I am currently on my way to PE to get the visa extension.
Awsome!!!! Wow, I’m more than impressed. It is so good to hear of all the things you manage to do. And to be honest, I do not envy you for all you have to do. But on the other jand, be encouraged to keep on the path your going. It sounds fascinating and well spend time! Say hi to Barney from me and I’ll mail you the “things” on the weekend! Hope to hear you soon