Siting of the Quarter – Fugitives' Drift, Natal, South Africa
7/31/2018
The aloes are flowering, and the Natal hillsides are peppered with colorful foliage. The Buffalo River is running clear now that the rains have stopped, and the often elusive Natal Yellowfish are active in the less turbid water. But, perhaps the most fascinating sight on the Fugitive's Drift reserve over the last few weeks was not one, but TWO, very large African Rock Pythons. The first five-meter long snake was found by reserve staff in a small stream below the lodge, waiting for an early winter meal.
The second was found by the Rattray's son and guide, Andrew, while en route to Rorke's Drift with guests. She was stretched almost completely across the road! It is uncertain why these rare and beautiful creatures are appearing at this time of the year, but it serves as a reminder that one should always expect the unexpected in Africa...