It is our first morning in Addo Elephant Park in South Africa. The morning is motionless and clear, notably quiet, cold and still dark as we load our guide's extended cab pick-up. We are here at the beginning of winter season because of the reduced chance of running into mosquitoes and malaria. Though we enjoy a short drive the evening before, this is our first full day in the truck looking for wildlife. The heater is running in the front seat while I take over the back with camera and gear. Sunrise comes quickly as we drive the road from Matyholweni Camp to Addo Main Camp in the north. By the time we reach Harvey's Loop the light is perfect. We are the only vehicle on the road, which is a blessing when we come around the corner to encounter a small herd of kudu.
Our guide skillfully coasts next to the group of eight as we hold our breath, hoping not to startle these hard to approach antelope. Their radar-like ears easily detect danger, causing them to bark and flee. Instead, they raise their heads and stare. We sit for several minutes and stare back, overwhelmed by the sheer mass of the herd, how exquisite their markings and their quiet stillness. It's not until I have looked at them for several minutes that I notice that each one of them has a mustachioed face on the end of their muzzle.
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