Hosinkulu
Sony A1, FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, FL: 200mm, S: 1/1000s, A: F5.6, ISO: 2000.
The leopard ambled down the path with the confidence of a king.
Hosinkulu means “king” in Tsonga.
He was marking his land. His recent victory over yet another invader a few days ago told of his continued prowess and his intention to remain in charge. With his female nearby and their recently born cub, it was even more imperative that he protect his territory. If he was to loose, the cub too would be destroyed by the victor - a challenge nature has put to many animal species to protect and ensure the survival of only the fittest genes.
As he moved towards us his eyes kept looking askance. Something he was watching or perhaps keeping an eye on was far to his right. But he did not seem bothered too much as he reached us and looking into my lens briefly paused his stare before moving on. Moments like this are always etched in ones memory and the sense of intensity from a wild animal is euphotic (for me). It means they see you, and acknowledge your presence. But they dont usually give you a look for more than a moment before the continue with their daily tasks and activities. With his back now receding behind us into the bushes, a moment for me had been shared of the pleasure and sheer majesty of this wonderful animal - the African leopard.
Raw Africa Collection
Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, the life giving.
This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen for it. This photographic journey explores, profiles and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. From its deep bush to its dry savannah and desert, Africa remains a place where life is represented by timeless vistas that are distilled into moments to treasure.
