In the
News...
January 2008
The World Conservation
This month's stories:
An Unlikely Association in Cameroon
In northern Cameroon, a female hippo named, "Africa" has caused quite a stir. She lives in the Bènouè River just outside the capital city of the province Garoua where she was born 17 years ago. Most hippos are reluctant to venture near humans, but Africa seems far less concerned. In fact, three individuals, Abduramane Sali, Souaibouliman Boukar, and Clèment Mbouè have a rather unique relationship with the hippo.
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Across the continent, hippos have a rather fearsome reputation and, while no official records are kept, they are widely reported to be responsible for human deaths than any other large animal. However, in this place, Africa will approach the men and receive treats in the form of cornflour mixed with salt. It is believed this exchange provides something of an agreement of mutual peace and safety. However, it is also likely a benefit to the hippo as the nearest grazing area suitable for hippos is reportedly 8 km downriver. Each evening, one of the "Masters" as they are locally called, will venture to the river's edge and call for Africa. Within a few minutes she will come out for her cornflour and be circled be spectators who will typically pay around €1 to take a picture. Poses vary and even the Japanese Ambassador has reportedly come to have his photo taken with Africa. Now, the WWF and the Ministry of Forest and Environment are interested in the "show" as it represents an example of how humans can sustainably use wildlife to benefit conservation and local development. |
 Do not try this at home!
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Source: Africa
Geographic Dec 07/Jan 08 issue; p. 22.
New Hippo Exhibit in San Antonio TX, USA
On Saturday, 19 January, 2008 the San Antonio Zoo opened its doors to its new, water-themed "Africa Live!" exhbit. "It's certainly the biggest thing we've ever done and I'm biased, but it's the best we've ever done," said San Antonio Zoo Executive Director J. Stephen McCusker.
And, as its centerpiece, is a hippo exhibit complete with underwater viewing. The $12 million exhibit works like a journey, a safari that tells the water-themed story of Africa through its plants, animals and people. Other species included in the exhibit are Lake Tanganyika cichlids, Lake Malawi cichlids, African lungfish, African giant bullfrog, emperor scorpion, dung beetles, African dwarf crocodile, rock python, green mamba, Gabon viper, Egyptian cobra, giant elephant shrew and other fish and turtles.
Zoo officials say the project is part of their mission to motivate people to preserve wild animals and habitats. According to the Zoo's website, "The theme of Africa Live!, the importance of water both in abundance and scarcity, encourages visitors to make comparisons to other areas like San Antonio, where water is especially precious."
Sources: MySanAntonio.com and the San Antonio Zoo (online)
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