2011-02-11 – Masai Mara N.R.

One of the most hardly seen species on the African plains made a surprise appearance this morning, on Topi plains. A female Aardvark was found walking out in the open. A magnificent creature, first sighting of my life, with long ears similar to a Kangaroo, and a huge tail and legs.  However, after some time of observation it was apparent that the animal was not feeling well. At mid morning it started walking in circles and stumbling to the ground repeatedly. We suspected it was a problem of overheating, because it is a nocturnal animal not adapted to staying out in the sun. In agreement with the rangers, we poured some water on it, and took it to the shade of a nearby tree. We guarded her for the rest of the morning, but at around 3pm she begun to shake and not to be able to stand anymore. She died at about 4pm. We don’t know what the cause of her death could be, maybe a snake bite, maybe intoxication.