This morning we started out our day at 6:00am to begin with darting wildlife. There was a vet that was there to tranquillize the animals and bring them down safely. We started out tranquilizing a male nyala on the grounds around where we are staying, and then we safely transported him to a different area across the road. We ended up darting and transporting four additional animals (nyalas and sables) to different areas in Trekpad Safaris. The students all split up into groups to help carry the animals and get them safely into the back of the trucks. This was such a fun experience getting to locate each animal after it had been darted and then seeing them regain all muscle movements after being immobilized.

After moving the wildlife, we took a break for breakfast and then headed out to view some of the crop farms and water pumps used for irrigation.  Trekpad grows a variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, and wheat.  They pump water from a nearby stream into the fields for irrigation.  To save money, they built the water pump by themselves instead of contracting out the activity.  On the way to the stream, we also got to view footprints left by a rhino!

After a short break, the next activity we did was go to the Afrikaner farm. We headed out to the mountains to reach this farm by four by four vehicles. We began by learning about the two most recent years of bull and heifer calf crops. After looking at each group of animals, we had discussions about what they are looking for in the Afrikaner breed and what they specifically want in their herd of cattle. After lunch, we had the opportunity, if we wanted, to help preg check four cows. Many students took full advantage of that opportunity! Once everyone was done preg checking, the four cows went swimming into a dip tank to help get rid of ticks and keep the ticks away for three weeks. After we were finished with the cattle, we all went up to the very top of the mountains to look at the view. It was absolutely beautiful! We took many pictures while up there and then headed back down the mountain and back to Trekpad Safaris.

We arrived back at the game reserve to enjoy time around the fire while watching supper cook as well as enjoying 'sing song time.' We had a wonderful meal of lamb chops, impala with lamb wrapped around it, impala kabobs as well as many other great side dishes. We gave them a warm thank you and gave them gifts to show our appreciation of all they've done.

Tomorrow we leave Trekpad Sefaris and look forward to seeing a seed stock farm as well as a grain farm. (Written by Jaden and Maddy)

Jaden, Addie, Kenzie, Jessica, and Dalen with a wild animal after it had been darted by the local veterinarian.

Jessica, Kenzie, and Dalen transporting the wild animal to a pickup truck for removal to a different pasture.

    

                                                

Afrikaner cattle, a local breed in South Africa

Jaden with a monkey skull!

Laura, Jaden, and Alana overlooking the mountain where Trekpad raises their cattle.