Ed is the cheetah I had the pleasure of playing with today at the Rhino and Lion Park. He is twelve years old, has gorgeous golden eyes, and loves to cuddle. I think it's a perfect match.
I also got to snuggle up to three not-so-little lion cubs who could rival my dog in desires for tummy rubs. The one who loved having her chin scratched the most had an appropriate name meaning "love". And at four months old, they probably weighed more than me.
Guys, are you getting the sense that I'm spoiled yet? Maybe blessed is what we should stick with as I spent the day jumping up and down, gasping, and squealing in awe at the glory of the Rhino and Lion Park in Joburg. Ahh.
The park was founded in 1985, and has a focus on conservation and breeding. It is even home to the only two clouded leopards in all of Africa. The methods have proven quite successful, and the wonderful treatment is evident in the behavior and appearance of the animals. I have never seen such happy, healthy creatures before. Nor have I seen any "zoo" animals freely crossing the road in front of me before! I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.
Seeing a white peacock is said to bring eternal happiness!
You thought I was here for research, didn't you? Well...I was researching. Researching my love for animals! And scheming how to take a few home...
Is it too late to change my major to zoology?
(One more)
I hope these pictures bring you some piece of the joy I experienced today.
Love Forever,
Lorien
From the day we arrive on the planet
And blinking, step into the sun
There's more to be seen than can ever be seen
More to do than can ever be done
There's far too much to take in here
More to find than can ever be found
But the sun rolling high
Through the sapphire sky
Keeps the great and small on the endless round
On the path unwinding
In the Circle of Life
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