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The blistering afternoon heat in which we set off was moderating by the
time we finished our transect. As we walked back across the plain towards
our camp, we kept coming across what our ranger, Issa, seemed to call Vanessa's
Doves, feeding on the ground in small groups. They fluttered away as we
came too close, landed after a short distance, and flew again as we approached.
We caught many glimpses of kob antelopes, mainly hinds, as we made our way
through the open savannah forest, but they were too cautious to allow us
to get close. Then Issa raised his hand, indicating a magnificent kob stag
standing some distance away, looking at us. Putting some vegetation between
me and the stag, I slowly approached, admiring the beautiful coat, almost
glowing in the warm sun, and the handsome head set off by the curved horns.
He knew I was there, but he arrogantly stood his ground as I came up behind
the last bush between us, focussed and pressed the button.