Exploring Tanzania

Hildebrandt’s Starling: The Colorful African Cousin of the Common Starling

Hildebrandt’s Starling with orange eyes and iridescent blue feathers in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.

Meeting the Hildebrandt’s Starling: An Uncommon African Beauty

Sometimes a change in geography will change your perspective on a “pest.” Moving from the muted, iridescent black of the North American starling to the vivid burnt-orange and iridescent blues of Hildebrandt’s Starling is quite the visual upgrade!

Where to Find Hildebrandt’s Starling

This lovely avian (Lamprotornis hildebrandti) is found only in the the modern countries of Kenya and Tanzania. While some call it uncommon, the IUCN considers the population stable and of “Least Concern.” I spotted the one pictured above loitering in a picnic park in the central Serengeti.

This starling is a medium sized bird (about 7 inches in length). It sports a purple-blue head and wings. Chest, belly, and—most strikingly—its eyes, are orange.

History and Habitat

Hildebrandt’s starling is named after Johann Maria Hildebrandt, an east African explorer, naturalist, and collector of the 19th century. He was the first to identify this species, often found in woodlands and savannahs between 1,600 and 7,200 ft.

This colorful forager eats insects and fruit and often feeds on the ground. This one was watching for picnic crumbs.

Hildebrandt’s vs. Superb Starling: How to Tell Them Apart

Hildebrandt’s starling should not be confused with the Superb starling, though they may be confused at a glance.

How to distinguish a Hildebrandt’s from a Superb Starling:

  • Eye Color: Hildebrandt’s has striking orange eyes, whereas the Superb has bright white eyes.

  • Chest Marking: The Superb starling features a distinct white breast band; the Hildebrandt’s chest is solid orange-buff.

  • Plumage: Hildebrandt’s typically displays a more uniform, deep iridescent blue-purple on the upperparts.

Compare them yourself by checking our posts on the Superb starling here and here.

See Hildebrandt’s starling for yourself

If birds are of interest to you, East Africa needs to be on your bucket list. Email us here for details about our 2027 Tanzania safari.

Vintage Charm Meets Modern Africa: Exploring the New Arusha Farm House

Vintage charm and modern comfort: Arriving at the Main House, where our safari adventure begins.

In just a few days, Vicki and I will be back in the air, heading to Tanzania to welcome a new group of safarists. We’ll be meeting them at a place that has quickly become a favorite: the Arusha Farm House.

A Blend of Heritage and Modern Comfort

Perched on the scenic shoulders of Mt Meru, this four-star lodge is perfectly situated off the main road between Moshi and Arusha. It offers a captivating atmosphere where vintage African charm meets contemporary luxury. Whether you’re arriving for the first time or returning, the Main House provides a warm and welcoming reception.

Poolside Serenity: Recharging at the pool house before heading out on safari.

Exceptional Facilities & Growth

The site has recently expanded (2025) to offer a wider range of accommodations and services:

  • Diverse Lodging: Guests will discover single, double, or triple rooms, as well as private standalone bungalows.

  • Modern Amenities: All rooms feature in-room Wi-Fi, laundry services, and seasonal climate control (heating or air conditioning) for ultimate comfort.

  • Wellness & Recreation: Guests can now enjoy a dedicated spa and exercise room, or relax at the pool house and bar located right in the yard.

Dining Amongst the Trees

One of our favorite highlights from last year was the newly opened dining hall. We were among the first few groups to experience this stunning space, which opens directly onto the surrounding forest and offers breathtaking views of the natural wonders of Mt Meru.

Forest Flavors: Savoring locally-sourced meals in a dining room that brings the outside in.

The Heart of the Lodge: The Staff

As with all the lodges we partner with, the excellent staff is what truly sets the experience apart. From the warm greetings at reception to the nightly bonfire prepared in the pit behind the dining hall, every detail is handled with care.

After the long flight from the US, there is no better place to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead. We can’t wait to repeat the experience with our new team!.

Stories Under the Stars: The nightly bonfire—the heart of our evenings at the Farm House.

Vervet Monkeys: Africa’s Clever Primates & Human Mirror

A Vervet monkey perched on a branch in Tarangire Park, Tanzania.

Perched in quiet anticipation, the Vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) is more than just a common face across sub-Saharan Africa. These clever primates are a mirror for humanity, captivating behavioral scientists with their familiar struggles. From the physical strain of hypertension to the complex social sting of spite and peer pressure—and even a notorious penchant for alcohol—they navigate a world of drama that looks strikingly like our own.

See vervets for yourself! Join our African Safari scheduled for June 3 - 13, 2027. Stay tuned for details or email us here.

Sparring partners

Headed back toTanzania next week! We’re timing our arrival perfectly for the Great Migration birthing season—a time of incredible renewal on the "endless plains" of the Serengeti National Park.

The action never stops. Check out these two Thomson’s gazelles sparring below! This ritualized fighting behavior is how they establish territory.

Want to join us on safari next year? Save the dates: June 3 - 13, 2027, watch for future announcements, or email us directly at the link here.

Above the Clouds: The Final Push on Mt. Kilimanjaro

The summit of Kilimanjaro consists of volcanic scree, glacial ice, and thin air (8/8/2017).

In light of the approaching snowpocalypse, I thought a couple of pictures from Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania might be appropriate.

Reaching Stella Point: The Hardest Part is Over

The shot above was taken from the trail above Stella Point. Once the climber has reached Stella (18,885’), the really tough push is over. From here, with good timing, the sun breaks over the horizon to warm the blue and reveal gently undulating ridges. It’s just a hour’s stroll to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kili (19,341’).

Surviving the Cold: Summit Temperatures on Kilimanjaro

If your water-bottle isn’t riding in a sock and deeply buried in your coat, it will freeze solid. Average temperatures along these ridges swing from 20 degrees F to -20 degrees F. On a cold morning, with wind chill, it can feel like -35 degrees F. That’s cold. Brain-numbing cold.

Thinking of tackling “the Roof of Africa”? Wear your woolies.

to read more on Kilimanjaro

If you want to read more about Kilimanjaro (we’ve summited twice), scroll down the sidebar on the Bible Land Explorer website to “Mountaineering” or “Mt Kilimanjaro.”

Step back for a look at the mountain in this post, Mt Kilimanjaro: The Roof of Africa.

Interested in an African safari? Email us here.

Three numb dudes who will never forget the sunrise of August 8, 2017 (Jason Wilcoxon, MZ, and Tommy Baker).

Mark Your Calendars: Our 2027 Tanzania Safari Dates are Set!

Small Footprint, Large Experience

We just received confirmation of our safari dates for next year! June 3-13, 2027 we will be back in Tanzania, camping the great parks including Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Exact details and budget are still in the works, but should be ready soon.

If full-on adventure in the African backcountry is on your wish list, you’ll need to mark your calendars. Know that we rent Land Cruisers with limited seating in order to keep our footprint small and our experiences large.

Email us with your questions here.

Follow Our 2026 Crew

We are leaving in less than a month with this year’s expedition! If you want to see the "backcountry" experience in action, be sure to track our journey on Facebook and YouTube.

That Nikon is a Cannon

Les Riley captured this view to two of our team members on African safari. That’s Gary Weisenberger firing from the stern position with a rather large-caliber lens. I’m curious what Gary sees in the viewfinder. It’s sure to be Serengeti-sized, whatever it is!

Gary takes aim . . .

Want to learn more about travel photography? Follow the link here.

Interested in a seat in that rig in 2027? Email us here.

Teamwork in the Wild: The Wattled Starling and the Wildebeest

A Wattled Starling perches on the back of a wildebeest in the African savanna, demonstrating mutualism.

In the vast landscapes of the African savanna, few sights are as charming as the Wattled Starling (Creatophora cinerea) hitching a ride on the back of a wildebeest.

The starling pictured here lacks the distinctive black and yellow facial markings of a breeding male, suggesting it may be a non-breeding male or a female. Regardless of its status, this bird is on a mission.

The Science of a Free Ride

Starlings hang out with their "big friends" for one primary reason: food. As a wildebeest moves through the grass, its massive weight stirs up clouds of insects. Additionally, the wildebeest’s tough hide is often home to ectoparasites—such as ticks, mites, or fly larvae—which are a prized delicacy for the bird.

In exchange for a mobile buffet, the starling provides a cleaning service, removing pests that would otherwise irritate or harm the host.

Mutualistic Symbiosis: Why We Work Better in Teams

This relationship is a textbook example of mutualistic symbiosis, where both species benefit from the interaction. It’s a natural "win-win."

Beyond the biology, there is a proverbial lesson here. Just like the bird and the beast, we often find our greatest success when we lean into our unique roles to help one another. It’s a reminder of why we work better in teams:

  • Shared Goals: Both parties get what they need.

  • Unique Strengths: The wildebeest provides the platform; the starling provides the precision.

  • Efficiency: They accomplish more together than they ever could alone.

Either way, this bird is hungry, ready to help, and proof that teamwork is wired into the system.

Reminds me of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV): “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

Wait! Here’s a thought

We’re returning to the Serengeti in 2027. Our 2026 safari is already full. Get your questions answered and get on the waitlist. Shoot us an email here.

Scavengers of Ngorongoro: Lessons on Energy and Renewal

A black-backed jackal and hooded vulture scavenging in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania.

The 10 Percent Rule: Nature’s Energy Budget and Psalm 104

Most of us understand the idea of the food chain in the natural world (this one eats that one and so on and so forth), but are you aware of the 10 percent rule?

In ecology, the 10 percent rule suggests that as energy is passed from producers (plants) to consumers (animals), the bulk of that energy—roughly 90%—is lost to life processes such as movement, heat production, reproduction, or waste. Only about 10 percent of energy is successfully transferred from one trophic level to the next.

This biological reality is why food chains remain short (usually capped at five levels) and why a healthy ecosystem requires a massive base of producers to support just a few top predators.

The Clean-Up Crew of the Ngorongoro Crater

The clean-up crew pictured above is a critical last stop for energy transfer in the Tanzanian grasslands. Scavengers and decomposers break down the last scraps of carcasses (often inedible to others) and release it back into soil. Plants absorb the nutrients from the soil and the cycle begins again (cue the “Circle of Life” tune from Disney’s Lion King).

Ecological Wisdom in Psalm 104

This system of the food chain is hinted at in Psalm 104. Contemplate these edible bits from vss 27-31:

“All creatures look to you to give the food at the proper time. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things. . . When you take away their breath, they die and return to the dust. When you send your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the ground. May the glory of YHWH endure forever; may YHWH rejoice in his works.”

In the biblical view, the death of one creature and its "return to the dust" is not a glitch in the system, but the very mechanism by which the Creator renews the face of the ground. The jackal and the vulture are not just scavengers; they are ministers of this renewal, ensuring that nothing is wasted and that the glory of creation endures.

Ready to Travel?

If you want to go on an safari safari on this side of glory (!), email us here.

Standing Tip-Toe: The Nimble World of Kirk’s Dik-dik

If you are out exploring in the bush of East Africa, keep your eyes low. You might just spot Kirk’s dik-dik (Madoqua kirkii), one of the world’s smallest and most endearing antelopes. Standing only about 18 inches tall, this tiny creature is a marvel of design.

The Science of "Toe Walking"

If you look closely at a dik-dik, you’ll notice it seems to stand permanently on tip-toe. This is a defining feature of ungulates (hoofed animals).

In this specialized foot structure, only the tips of the toes touch the ground, while the "heel" is located much further up the leg. To protect these contact points, a hard layer of keratin caps each toe, providing both strength and durability for rugged terrain.

The "Even-Toed" Advantage

Kirk’s dik-dik belongs to the Artiodactyla group, or "even-toed" ungulates. They possess two weight-bearing digits on each foot. This specific anatomy isn't just for show; it provides a distinct survival advantage:

  • Speed: Despite their size, they can sprint up to 26 mph.

  • Agility: Their foot structure allows them to "turn on a dime," making them difficult for predators to pin down.

  • Stability: This is why you might see a tiny antelope perched high on a jagged rock or a steep cliff face. They are built for the heights!

Don’t worry if you spot one of these tiny antelopes in a seemingly precarious position. Between their keratin-capped toes and their nimble weight distribution, they are perfectly at home on the edge.

Stop tiptoeing around

For curated travel opportunities in Africa, Asia, and Europe, see our list of excursions here or email us directly here.

Spotted in the Grass: The Elusive Serval Cat of Ngorongoro Crater

This servile cat stopped to listen in Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania.

Stop the jeep!

While on safari in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania, we were treated to a rare sight: a serval cat slinking through the tall grass

The serval (Leptailurus serval) is a lanky feline native to sub-Saharan Africa. At a glance, it might look like a large house cat, but its oddly small head and exceptionally long legs—the longest of any cat relative to its body size—set it apart as a specialized hunter.

The "Delicate Cat" by Name and Nature

"Serval" comes from the Portuguese lobo-cerval, meaning "lynx" or literally "wolf-deer" in reference to its deer-like frame.

A Tense Encounter on the Crater Floor

Spotted on the floor of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this particular serval was a master of camouflage. We were able to observe its movements for a short while, but the peace didn't last long. A group of lions approached. The serval beat a hasty exit.

want to see big (and small) cats?

We stopped counting after seeing more than 100 lions on our last safari. Want to try again in 2027? Email us here for details.

The success of our African safaris is due, in part, to good guides and wheelmen. Check out the video here.

Standing on the Edge: The Breathtaking Rim of Ngorongoro Crater

There is nothing quite like the first time you stand on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. Looking out across the vast expanse, you realize you are standing on the edge of the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera.

In the foreground of this shot, you’ll notice a striking member of the aloe family—likely the Krantz Aloe (Aloe arborescens). These resilient plants frame the dramatic view of the crater floor 2,000 feet below.

The Descent to Lake Magadi

Far in the distance, shimmering on the crater floor, you can make out the outline of Lake Magadi. This shallow, alkaline body of water is a focal point for wildlife, often attracting vast flocks of flamingos that tint the shoreline pink.

Getting from the rim to that water is an adventure in itself. The steep drop is navigated via a white-knuckle switchback road in a 4-wheel drive vehicle—a breathtaking (and bumpy!) experience that truly puts the scale of the caldera into perspective.

A Natural Wonder of Tanzania

I shot these images during my first visit to the region back in 2017, and the sense of awe hasn't faded. Whether you are interested in the geology of the caldera or the unique African flora clinging to the rim, Ngorongoro remains one of the most spectacular landscapes on the planet.

Picnic on the Serengeti

Picnic on the Serengeti, Tanzania. August 2025.

We are getting ready to return to Africa again next month with a full crew in tow. February is birthing season. An estimated half a million wildebeest calves will be dropped on this southern plain in the next eight weeks. We're on it. I'm pumped. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and YouTube.

The Sounds of the Spotted Hyena

Spotted Hyena calls in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Does the hyena really laugh? The science behind the sound

"Whoo-whoop, cackle-cackle!" The haunting cry of the Spotted Hyena is one of the most iconic sounds of the African wilderness. But is the hyena actually laughing?

While it may sound like a giggle to human ears, these vocalizations are part of a highly sophisticated social language.

Decoding Hyena Vocalizations

Hyenas don't laugh because they find something funny. Instead, their "laughter" is a series of staccato vocalizations used for specific communication:

  • The “Whoop”: This is a long-distance contact call that can carry for over three miles. It’s used to advertise territory boundaries or to rally members of the clan.

  • The “Cackle”: Often mistaken for a laugh, this high-pitched sound is actually a signal of social excitement or submission. It often occurs during a hunt or when a subordinate hyena is being chased by a dominant one.

Understanding these sounds transforms a nighttime “laugh” from a spooky noise into a glimpse into one of nature’s most complex social structures.

Experience the Symphony of the Serengeti

With Christmas in the rearview mirror, my mind is drifting back to the savanna. While our February 2026 Serengeti excursion is officially full, the adventure doesn't stop there.

Why Plan for 2027 Now?

The Serengeti remains a premier world-class destination. To secure the most exclusive lodges and the most knowledgeable guides, we recommend booking 12–18 months in advance.

What Awaits You:

  • The Great Migration: Witness millions of wildebeest and zebra on the move.

  • The Big Five: Track lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhino.

  • The Nighttime Symphony: Fall asleep to the very whoops and cackles of the African bush.

Isn’t it time for you to experience one of the last great wild places on earth?

Email us today to get on the wait list for 2027. Here’s the link to our desk.

And if you’re not into “Dad jokes,” don’t click this.

The Facultative Nomad: Birdwatching in Tanzania

The Facultative Nomad: Tracking the Yellow-Billed Stork

A "facultative nomad" is a creature that lives a settled life when it can, but moves around when required. Whether applied to birds, bugs, or even people, it describes a perfect balance of stability and survival.

This description fits the Yellow-billed stork (Mycteria ibis) of sub-Saharan Africa perfectly. These striking birds are staples of African wetlands and mudflats. Because of their specialized wading and feeding tactics, Yellow-bills avoid deep water, preferring the shallow edges where prey is easier to snatch.

As long as food is plentiful, they stay put. However, their larger patterns of migration remain largely unstudied and unclear—they simply follow the resources. I spotted this "gang" lingering in the reeds during a trip through northwest Tanzania.

Safari with Us in Africa

Are you ready to be a facultative nomad for a few weeks? While our 2026 African Safari offerings are currently full, we are already angling for our 2027 expeditions.

Don't miss the chance to see Tanzania’s incredible wildlife—from the Great Migration to the hidden life in the reeds—up close.

  • View our current travel opportunities: https://mark-ziese.squarespace.com/find-my-trip

  • Get on the 2027 Waitlist: Contact BibleLandExplorer@gmail.com

Interested in learning more about the Yellow-billed stork? Check out our posts here and here.

Ostrich Brain-to-Body Ratio: Wisdom, Job 39, and the Assfish

We encountered this large male ostrich standing in the expansive grasslands of Tanzania during a wildlife safari.

The Ostrich: A Masterclass in Brain-to-Body Ratio

When it comes to the brain-to-body ratio, the ostrich isn't quite at the bottom of the list, but it’s certainly in the neighborhood. An ostrich possesses a tiny 1.5-ounce brain to steer a massive 250-pound bird. To put that in perspective, an ostrich's eye is actually larger than its brain!

Which animal actually holds the title for the lowest ratio? Scientists aren't entirely certain, but the debate usually swerves between the Bony-eared Assfish and—well, I’ll let you fill in the blank for the second candidate. (I mainly included that detail because I wanted to type the word assfish a second time).

A Biblical Perspective on the Ostrich

This lack of "intellectual firepower" was noted long before modern biology. As Job 39:17 reminds us:

"God did not endow her with wisdom or give her a share of good sense."

Despite their lack of "good sense," seeing a big male ostrich like this one in the Tanzanian grasslands is a highlight of any trip. They are powerful, prehistoric-looking, and endlessly entertaining to watch in the wild.

See the Wildlife of Tanzania for Yourself

Ready to witness the "silly" side of the savannah? We specialize in having fun while responsibly bringing history and nature to life!

  • View Our Travel Opportunities: Click here for an updated list.

  • Join the 2027 Safari Waitlist: Email me here with your questions.

If you enjoyed reading about this ostrich, check out these three birds here.

Seeking Shade

A trio of giraffes seek shade to escape the sun in the African savannah

Shade Seekers: The Social World of the Giraffe

A trio of giraffes pauses to escape the heat of the midday sun.

Giraffes are highly social animals, often found living in groups—a collective appropriately known as a “tower.” Beyond their towering height, their social sophistication is truly fascinating. They aren't just silent giants; they communicate with one another through a complex array of sounds and physical signals.

In the wild, you might observe a variety of giraffe communication methods, including:

  • Vocalizations: Chirps, barks, and even low-frequency hums.

  • Visual Signals: Head bobbing and tail wagging.

  • Breath: Powerful "blows" or snorts to signal alarm or presence.

Watching these interactions in person is a highlight of any trip to the savannah.

Join Our Upcoming AfricaN Safaris

Want to see a tower of giraffes in their natural habitat? We invite you to wander over to Africa and safari with us!

  • 2026 Expeditions: Now closed. All seats taken.

  • 2027 Bookings: Email us here to get on a waitlist.

For more on giraffes, check out our post here.

The Secret of Cheetah Tear Lines: Malar Stripes & Serengeti Safaris

Close-up of a cheetah in the Serengeti showing the dark malar stripes (tear lines) from its eyes to its mouth.

More Than a Pretty Face: The Function of Cheetah Tear Lines

Tear lines give the cheetah a distinctive and adorable face. These dark marks stand in sharp contrast to the tawny fur of this fast feline, connecting the inner corner of the eye directly to the mouth. But in the wild, these lines are far more than just a beauty mark.

The Science of Malar Stripes

Wildlife specialists refer to these markings as malar stripes (malar being the Latin word for "cheek"). Much like the black greasepaint football players apply under their eyes, it is believed these lines function to:

  • Reduce Glare: Absorbing sunlight to prevent snow-blindness or sun-glare on the open savannah.

  • Enhance Focus: Helping cheetahs, falcons, and other "tear-lined" predators spot, track, and pursue prey across long distances.

A Serengeti Encounter

We recently encountered this beautiful cheetah—and could hear the hidden chirps of her cubs—in the heart of the central Serengeti. Watching a mother cheetah navigate the tall grass is a masterclass in focus and stealth.

Spot a Fast Feline in the Wild

If seeing the world's fastest land animal in its natural habitat sounds like your kind of adventure, we invite you to join us.

  • 2026 Tours: Our current offerings are filling fast. See our destinations here.

  • 2027 Planning: Get on our waitlist. Email BibleLandExplorer@gmail.com

Like cheetahs? Here’s a link to a view.

Giants of Tarangire: Baobabs, Elephants, and the Tree of Life

A massive, 1,000-year-old baobab tree at the Boundary Hill Gate entrance of Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.

Entering the Realm of Giants: The Baobabs of Tarangire

The Boundary Hill Gate serves as the primary entrance for most safarists arriving at Tarangire National Park in Tanzania. Standing guard at the gate is a truly remarkable baobab tree, an iconic specimen of the African landscape estimated to be at least a thousand years old.

The "Upside-Down" Tree

The baobab's silhouette is unmistakable. Local legends often call it the "upside-down tree" because, if you squint, its gnarled branches look exactly like roots reaching toward the sky.

Africa's True "Tree of Life"

Others revere the baobab as the "Tree of Life," a title earned through its incredible biological resilience:

  • Massive Water Storage: A mature baobab can store up to 120,000 liters (32,000 gallons) of water in its spongy, fibrous trunk to survive harsh droughts.

  • Elephant Lifeline: During the dry season, elephants use their tusks to gouge the bark, chewing the moisture-rich wood to stay hydrated.

  • Longevity: These prehistoric giants can live for over 2,000 years, outlasting almost every other living thing on the savannah.

Tarangire National Park is world-famous for having the highest density of both baobabs and elephants in Tanzania. Seeing these two giants interact against the golden grasslands is an experience unlike any other.

Join Us on Safari

Ready to stand in the shadow of a thousand-year-old giant? We invite you to explore the wild heart of Africa with us.

  • 2026 Expeditions: All seats taken. Registration closed.

  • 2027 Planning: Email us here and get on the waitlist. Be ready when registration opens.