TRAVEL
Wildlife takes center stage at
CHOBE NATIONAL PARK by Debbie Stone
I
am both repelled and fascinated by crocodiles, as their fearsome reputation precedes them. No one wants to mess with a croc, but many people will seize the opportunity to view one up close, particularly within its natural habitat.
Prior to my trip to Botswana, I had only seen these primordial creatures in nature centers, where I felt removed from them. So, when the boat I was riding in started inching closer to the banks of the Chobe River, where a croc was sun bathing, the experience suddenly became a bit too close for comfort. Despite the excitement from all the paparazzi onboard, the croc appeared to be comatose. But then, it opened one reptilian eye and appeared to train its gaze directly on me. I nervously chuckled, while moving further back into the boat. After a few minutes, I averted my eyes and graciously
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