More wildlife

Towards sunset last night, the small flock of flamingos could be seen taking off from the Kom. As I was in the car at the time, I drove down to enjoy the spectacle, and observed the cause of their flight - a small group of youngsters frolicking unchecked in the Kom where the birds feed. It obviously had the same effect as the dogs that chase after them, barking in excitement. What a pity. However, it enabled those who were nearby to see their elegant flight and doubtless they will return soon.
In the background, just behind the island, a whale was spouting, no doubt a passerby as it is too early for the Southern Rights to come in for calving. So another opportunity to see the rich heritage of natural beauty where we live.

A more unwelcome sighting was a large puffadder sunning itself in my friend's back garden this morning. The same snake catcher as had removed mine last week turned up with a faulty pair of tongs and struggled to get a grip on the writhing reptile, which was getting rather annoyed, particularly when it saw the tube it was going to be put in. As the snake man lifted the tube, the puffadder reversed and popped its head back out. Much shrieking and finger-pointing ensued. At that stage we were considering calling another snake catcher with long trousers and tongs that worked. He was now using his foot to stand on the snake's tail, while answering a call on his phone - a cobra to be caught nearby - leaving the puffadder free to bite him if it so wished. Eventually we gave him some rather short braai tongs and soon the snake was incarcerated. Things are getting quite out of hand here with the hibernation season upon us and every snake in the area looking for a cosy spot!