“Please find me a good seat, someplace where I can sit in the sun and watch the world go by. My happiness will soar.” We spotted this young male Olive Baboon crotched down, with its back to a thick trunk. He gazed out across the bush. One hand gripped the broken branch, and his eyes slowly surveyed the surroundings. At one point, he stared right at me but showed no change in expression, as if I was nothing to note. I would have loved to know what was going through his mind.
It was mid-morning, and the troop had probably had its breakfast. Some others were still high in the canopy, picking fruit or fresh leaves. Others were strolling along the ground as a family might out for a mid-morning walk. This guy seemed content. I expected him to reach behind him, pulling out a cup of coffee or maybe a flask of wine for a little sip. He appeared in deep thought.
Humans often dismiss animals as beasts that run on instinct alone, without emotions, wishes, or wants. But when I see something like this, it makes me question that wisdom. Scientists are cautioned not to anthropomorphize what we see in the natural world. Watching how he sat and looked around made me feel we have much to learn and appreciate about other life.
#Uganda #UgandaWildlife #Ugandaphotography #Ugandasafari #baboon
Great! Well written!
Thanks so much.
Amazing, Tom! I love getting these little gems in my email. I’m with you, there is so much more to learn about in the animal kingdom.
Kindly,
Sheri
Thanks so much. The wild is so intriguing.